I was fortunate to share a studio in Tucson with a number of great artists, and next door to me was Guy Porfirio, who is a great friend. I seldom watch the late night TV talk shows, but a few years back, I had Leno on in my hotel room and was fading to sleep listening to Billy Crystal talk about his new children’s book, who then gave credit to the illustrator: Guy Porfirio. I about fell out of bed. The next day Crystal gave Guy credit again on the Today Show, and I told Guy that it was a classy thing for him to do that.
I love Guy’s whimsical way of capturing the essence of a subject, and it shows his wonderful sense of humor. I love chatting with him about our mutual likes – one of them being the Beatles or old movies with Jimmy Stewart. But Guy is a great source of inspiration and positive reinforcement to me.
Guy has illustrated over 18 picture books since becoming a free-lance illustrator. Crystal’s book, Grandpa’s Little One was #3 on the New York Times Best Selling Children’s Books, and Junk Man’s Daughter was featured in the Bank Street College of Education’s Best Children’s Books of the Year list in 2007. He’s also the author and illustrator of Jump! , a story about a clever cactus with plenty of spine and a great sense of adventure.
One of his newest illustrations can be seen in The Worst Christmas Ever, a story about a kid named Matthew who loves Christmas but moves to California – where there is a no snow. It is written by Kathleen Long Bostrom.
“My Grandma Lives in Arizona”
His new book is out now – “My Grandma Lives in AZ.” Especially dear to me having lived in Arizona and longing for it especially in January, February and March through December. I’ve bought three copies so far. Wonderful book! Buy it here.
To get more information and see all of Guy Porfirio’s work, please visit guyporfirio.com
