The Legacy of Jan Pieńkowski: Bringing Joy to Generations

Jan Pieńkowski was an extraordinary individual who left an indelible mark on the world through his remarkable work in children's literature. His legacy continues to inspire and delight readers of all ages with his beloved characters, Meg and Mog.

As Ed Vere, godson to Walser, so eloquently put it, 'Jan Pieńkowski lived an inspiring life dedicated to making books of the very highest standard – pioneering, intelligent, beautifully considered, and always created with a mischievous sense of fun.' His dedication to his craft was evident in every detail, from the meticulous attention he gave to his illustrations to the way he worked with children as equals.

Pieńkowski's work was deeply personal, drawing heavily from his own childhood experiences. Growing up in Poland during wartime, he developed a fascination with paper cut-outs, which later became a hallmark of his unique style. His interest in pop-ups and innovative storytelling techniques earned him numerous awards and recognition within the industry.

Meg and Mog, the series he co-created with Helen Nicoll, has become a timeless classic, endearing itself to readers worldwide with its lighthearted tale of a hapless witch and her stripy cat. The characters' adventures were brought to life through Pieńkowski's vibrant illustrations, which continue to captivate children and adults alike.

Francesca Dow, managing director of Penguin Random House Children's Books, confirmed that Jan Pieńkowski passed away on Saturday morning, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come. His work remains an inspiration to creators and readers alike, reminding us of the power of imagination, curiosity, and the importance of treating children as equals.

Meg Mog

Jan Pieńkowski

Children's Literature

Illustrations

Paper Cut-outs

Pop-ups

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Meg mog