A multiple New York Times bestselling author of more than sixty books, Parr is best known for cherished titles such as It’s Okay to Be Different, The I Love You Book, and The Earth Book, which have garnered Parents’ Choice, Green Earth Book, and National Parenting Publications awards. Todd Parr speaks directly to children in the visual language of saturated color, with thick black lines and emotional clarity.
His creative reach extends beyond publishing into animation, as co-creator of the animated series ToddWorld, noted for its celebration of diversity and inclusion. ToddWorld was nominated many times for a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Children’s Animated Program. His next project continues his commitment to early literacy with Todd Parr Phonics: Set One – Short Vowel Sounds, a twelve-book decodable series for emerging readers, arriving this year.
DC: What is your favorite color, and why?
TP: Blue. Good question without a specific answer. As far back as I can remember I’ve always gravitated towards blue. Even my car is blue.
DC: Your art treats color as a living language that carries emotion, values, and belonging. What excites you most about color’s ability to communicate meaning before a child can even read words?
TP: I think the bright colors along with the black outlines is the key. Those two things together make the art jump off the page.
DC: Bright, bold color often creates immediate emotional access. How do you think color helps children develop visual confidence and emotional literacy at an early age?
TP: I think it’s because most kids can really relate to the art as if they can draw just like me.
DC: Your books hold happiness, difference, and complexity, all at once. How have you seen color succeed as a tool for teaching empathy and openness?
TP: Yes, it helped along with my art style, bold lines, unpredictability, and humor.
DC: If color is a language we are constantly learning to speak, what do you hope today’s children grow up understanding about how color can express identity, feeling, and care?
TP: Your color is your superpower. It is how you can express your feelings and every color is important.
DC: How do you incorporate color into your daily life? And how does color work for you?
TP: By driving a blue car and wearing blue clothes on most days. 😎
DC: What’s happening in your studio?
TP: My studio is filled with things that inspire me and make me feel good.
DC: Any advice for new artists launching their careers?
TP: Listen, and be confident.