Mélanie Watt

Mélanie Watt, born on August 20, 1975, in Montreal, Quebec, is a renowned Canadian author and illustrator, celebrated for her contribution to children's literature. Her creative journey commenced during her academic years at the University of Quebec in Montreal, where she created her first picture book, "Leon the Chameleon," under the guidance of Michèle Lemieux in a design class. This initial venture was later published by Kids Can Press, marking the onset of a prolific literary career​​.

Her works primarily encompass picture books, with "Scaredy Squirrel" and "Chester" series being among the most recognized. The "Scaredy Squirrel" series, in particular, has not only won the Ruth & Sylvia Schwartz Children's Book Award but also has been translated into French as "Frisson l'écureuil." The narrative of "Chester" revolves around a cat named Chester who vies with Watt for the chance to author and illustrate his books, which was well-received and earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly​.

Mélanie's love for drawing was apparent from an early age, finding joy in drawing the comic strip character Garfield. As a child, she was influenced by various experiences, including a fear of sharks, which later found a reflection in her "Scaredy Squirrel" series. After earning a BA in graphic design, she delved into the world of storytelling and illustration, with children's book author Mo Willems serving as one of her inspirations. Her stories often emanate from her childhood experiences and personal fears, providing a relatable and enjoyable reading experience for young readers​​.

Watt's remarkable storytelling and illustration talent have led to the translation of her books into 23 languages, with over two million copies sold as of 2012. Besides the "Scaredy Squirrel" and "Chester" series, she has crafted other notable works including "Augustine," "Leon the Chameleon," and "Have I Got a Book for You!" Each of these works reflects her unique storytelling style, coupled with captivating illustrations that engage young readers.

Currently residing near Montreal, Mélanie Watt continues to enchant the young readers with her imaginative stories and illustrations, making a significant impact in the realm of children's literature​3​. Over the years, her books have garnered numerous awards, and her unique style has solidified her standing in the children's book author community, where she continues to inspire and educate young minds through her engaging narratives and visually appealing illustrations​.