Cathryn Falwell

Maine children’s book illustrator and author Cathryn Falwell was born in Kansas City, Kansas and grew up in the Midwest --Missouri, Wisconsin and Minnesota--before moving to Connecticut as a teenager. She received her BFA in Art from the University of Connecticut in 1975. After college, Ms. Falwell lived in New Hampshire for several years where she worked as a teacher and a graphic designer. Returning to Connecticut, she worked as an art director and designer for an award-winning graphic design firm. Five years later, she opened her own design business, specializing in institutional and corporate print design.

Ms. Falwell married Peter Mirkin in 1979. After their two sons were born, she decided to pursue the children’s book field--something she had wanted to do since the second grade. Her first picture book, Where’s Nicky? was published in 1991.

Ms Falwell and her husband live in Gorham, Maine. Their two children, now adults, live happy and creative lives.  In addition to writing and illustrating picture books, Ms. Falwell volunteers with community and social action groups, is an active member of a Unitarian church, and enjoys music, traveling, gardening, reading and hiking. Her studio overlooks Frog Song Pond, which has inspired several of her books. She visits schools and libraries to present interactive programs for children that celebrate books, creativity and imagination.