ROBERT CASILLAIllustrator
ROBERT CASILLA
Illustrator
Robert Casilla, born in Jersey City, New Jersey, received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. He works from his studio at his home in New Fairfield, Connecticut where he lives with wife and two children.
Casilla, an artist/illustrator of Hispanic background, has illustrated many multicultural children's books such as THE LITTLE PAINTER OF SABANA GRANDE, JALAPENO BAGELS and THE LEGEND OF MEXICATL, CON MI HERMANO/WITH MY BROTHER.
He has also illustrated a number of biographies, including ones about Martin Luther King, Jr., John F. Kennedy, Eleanor Roosevelt, Rosa Parks, Jackie Robinson, Jesse Owens and Simon Bolivar.
Published Books Coming Soon!
Daniel and the Lions
By Gloria Jean Pinkney, illustrated by Robert Casilla, ABINGTON PRESS, Scheduled publication: Sept 08 Reading level: Ages 9-12 Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: Abingdon Press (September 2008)
ISBN-10: 0687652359
ISBN-13: 978-0687652358 
Midnight Forests: A Story Of Gifford Pinchot And Our National Forests by Gary Hines, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: Boyds Mills Press (April 1, 2005)
ISBN: 1563971488
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal When Pinchot entered Yale in 1885 with the intention of becoming a forester, few Americans had heard of the profession, and he had to pursue his practical training in Europe. After successfully demonstrating the benefits of tending forests by managing the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, Pinchot spread his message throughout the country. As head of the newly formed Forest Service, he trained others to tend public lands. However, his most enduring legacy came in collaboration with President Theodore Roosevelt when the two men carried out a plan to set aside huge forest reserves in the West. Without the work of this conservationist, the U.S. landscape today probably would include far fewer trees today. The full-color illustrations ... portray the events described in the text. With ongoing debates about forest conservation and logging issues, this clearly written picture-book biography provides a timely introduction to the work of an important pioneer. Students who want to learn more might read Peter Anderson's Gifford Pinchot (Scholastic, 1996), which includes period photographs.–Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato Copyright Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
From Booklist ... Mirroring the quiet prose, the dignified pencil-and-watercolor illustrations depict Pinchot at work and in quiet contemplation. ... this large-format picture book will make an effective choice for Earth Day displays. Carolyn Phelan
Copyright American Library Association. All rights reserved
The Dream on Blana's Wall, Poems in English and Spanish by Jane Medina, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 9-12 Hardcover: 48 pages Publisher: Boyds Mills Press; Bilingual edition (March 1, 2004)
ISBN: 1563977400
Paperback: Publisher: Wordsong; Bilingual edition (March 1, 2004)
ISBN: 159078264X
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal ...this free-verse collection delineates the life of Blanca, a sixth grader who, encouraged by her teachers, aspires to become an educator herself. Her dreams are embodied in a picture she drew in second grade of a young, brown teacher who looks like her. Now the tape is yellow and curling, and in the face of challenges from life, Blanca feels that her dream, too, is curling and cracked. The 24 poems outline the obstacles she faces: poverty, non-English-speaking parents, long absences from school to return to Mexico, and a much-loved but underachieving older brother who belittles her ambitions. They also address the sources of strength in her life: a loving family, concerned teachers, and a supportive neighborhood. The poems, spare and understated, are well matched by Casilla's photographic black-and-white pencil drawings. The Spanish translation is literal and as unadorned as the English, creating a starkly realistic picture of life for many children of migrant families. Excellent as a teaching tool, both as a pattern for writing verse and as a discussion starter, this title can be balanced by sunnier poetry on Chicano life, such as Francisco X. Alarcn's Laughing Tomatoes/Jitomates risuenos (1997) and Iguanas in the Snow/Iguanas en la nieve (2001, both Children's Book Press) Copyright Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Mama Had To Work on Christmas, by Carolyn Mardsen, illustrated by Robert Casilla, Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover: 80 pages Publisher: Viking Books (September 1, 2003)
ISBN: 0670036358
Gloria always spends Christmas with Papi, Mama, and Nana. But this Christmas, Papi is away picking oranges and Mama has to work at the hotel where she is a maid. Gloria is miserable when Mama makes her go with her-until they get to the hotel with its lavish decorations and food piled high on the tables. What a magical place to spend Christmas! But then Mama explains that these lovely things are only for the guests: Gloria is to stay in the kitchen where nobody will see her. From her hiding spot, Gloria watches as a girl her age eats a fancy meal with her family. How can one girl have so much while another has so little?
2004 Pura Belpre Illustrator Award Honor ALSC/REFORMA
Editorial Reviews
From Booklist ... The neat uplifting story ... with moving, realistic black-and-white illustrations does bring home the painful truth about class differences, a subject seldom addressed in children's books. Hazel Rochman Copyright American Library Association. All rights reserved
First Day in Grapes by L. King Perez, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Hardcover (September 2002) Lee & Low Books; Reading level: Ages 4-8 Edition: School & Library Binding 32 pages Publisher: Lee & Low Books; 1st edition (September 2002) 
ISBN: 1584300450
All year long, Chico’s family moves up and down the state of California to pick fruits and vegetables. Every September, Chico starts at a new school. Often, the other kids pick on him — maybe because he’s always new, or maybe because he speaks Spanish sometimes. But third grade promises to be different. He likes his teacher, and she recognizes his excellent abilities in math — he may even get to go to the math fair! When some fourth-grade bullies tease him, he surprises them with strengths of his own.
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal .... the watercolor, colored-pencil, and pastel illustrations bring warmth and color to this portrait of life in rural California. Rosalyn Pierini, San Luis Obispo City-County Library, CA Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist ,,,. Realistic watercolor, pastel, and colored-pencil illustrations are especially adept at portraying Chico's emotions. His story will resonate with migrant students and those who have moved frequently. For others, it's an insightful glimpse of another way of life and a reminder that different kids have different talents. Linda Perkins Copyright American Library Association. All rights reserved
|  LA Leyenda De Mexicatl by Jo Harper, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 - 32 pages (September 30, 2000) Turtle Books Paperback ISBN 1890515221 Hardcover (May 1998) ISBN 189051506X |
Growing up under the blistering sun of the desert, the boy Mexicatl can hardly imagine being chosen to lead his people - until he has a vision. One day the Morning Star tells him to search for "a place of harmony" and reveals the sacred image of the eagle and snake. Only after Mexicatl learns the hard lessons of leadership do his people prosper. Richly illustrated, this is an enchanting story of faith and wisdom, drawn from ancient Aztec history.
Editorial Reviews
From Kirkus Reviews The story of a young man destined to be a leader of his people is also the story of the founding of Mexico. A young boy who lives ``under the blazing desert sun'' is called Mexicatl, after the mescal plant used to make his cradle. The strong child is told that the Morning Star will speak to one who will rise up among their people and resettle them. One day in the desert, the young man hears his name. A voice calls him to a mountaintop where he sees the vision of a cactus and an eagle. He leads some of his people to a new land. He reigns, but does not contribute to the good of the community until his mother offers her advice: ``You have set yourself above the people. This is not the way of harmony.'' Lesson learned, Mexicatl changes his ways and the people prosper. A note describes the Mexican legend's history. The illustrator chooses to make the scenes very simple: the realistic depiction of a young man against a background of color that is the stylized landscape; uncluttered vistas and several portraits of Mexicatl with movie-star good looks at various ages. The overall effect is to enhance the legend with timeless pictures of strength and beauty. There is food for thought in Harper's recasting of the legend, which locates the humanity at the center of true leadership. (Picture book/folklore. 5-8) -- Copyright 1998, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
Daddy Poems by John Micklos Jr., Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 - 32 pages (April 2000) Boyds Mills Press; 
Paperback
ISBN 1563978709
School & Library Binding
ISBN 1563977354
The author, John Micklos, Jr. , June 13, 2000 Celebrating the love between fathers and children. I compiled Daddy Poems to illustrate the love and laughter shared by fathers and children. I also hope this book of poems will encourage dads to read with their children.
This book of poems takes readers through a day with dad, from his morning shave through piggyback rides, outdoor activities, bath time, and finally bed time. Many of the poems, such as my poems "Daddy Hugs," "Bath Time," and "Bedtime Ritual," reflect universal experiences that occur in many families, including mine. I hope this collection of poems brings smiles and warm feelings to many readers.
Editorial Reviews
From Booklist Robert Casilla's realistic illustrations depict the face of fatherhood from many walks of life and reflect the joy of the parent-child relationship. Kids will recognize themselves and their fathers in the poems, and dads will be reminded of the fundamental importance of their role. Tim Arnold Copyright American Library Association. All rights reserved
A PICTURE BOOK COLLECTION
A Picture Book of Thurgood Marshall by David A. Adler, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8- 32 pages
Holiday House; 
Paperback (April 1999)
ISBN 0823415066
School & Library Binding (Sept 1997)
ISBN 082341308X
Editorial Reviews
From Parents' Choice A story about the life of a highly regarded Supreme Court justice, Thurgood Marshall, an African American appointed by President Johnson. A Parents' Choice Approval. (Parents' Choice, 1999)
From Horn Book
Adler does a fine job of highlighting Marshall's considerable legal accomplishments and precedence-setting appointments, such as winning the landmark Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka and serving as U.S. Solicitor General. The illustrations are a bit somber but lend a seriousness to Marshall's unique role in shaping racial attitudes in America during the last half of the twentieth century. -- Copyright 1998 The Horn Book, Inc. All rights reserved.
A Picture Book of Martin Luther King, Jr by David A. Adler, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8
- 32 pages Holiday House; 
School & Library Binding(September (1989)
ISBN 0823407705
Paperback (June 1991) Holiday House;
ISBN 0823408477
Bk & cassette edition (January 1998) Live Oak Media;
ISBN 0874991668
A brief, illustrated, biography of the Baptist minister and civil rights leader whose philosophy and practice of nonviolent civil disobedience helped American blacks win many battles for equal rights
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal This beautifully illustrated , easy-to-read biography takes a look at the life, leadership, and ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Adler examines King's family background, leadership of the Montgomery bus boycott, and the 1963 march on Washington, D.C. By focusing primarily on these events, Adler provides young readers with enough basic information to form a well-rounded picture of King and his ideals. However, the outstanding feature of this book is the vivid watercolor illustrations, which are sure to capture readers' attention. Casilla dramatically reveals the mood and feelings of the era. An error appears in the chronology section, where it states that King was married in Marion, Georgia instead of Marion, Alabama (some sources list Heiberger, Alabama, which is nearby). A fine introduction to King and the freedom movement, and one that would be equally useful for storyhour and discussion groups. --Jeanette Lambert, LaVega School, Waco, TX
A Picture Book of Eleanor Roosevelt by David A. Adler, Robert Casilla (Illustrator), Randye Kaye (Reader) Paperback Bk&cassett edition (December 1997) Live Oak Media; Reading level: Ages 4-8 - 32 pages 
ISBN 0874993997
School & Library Binding Holiday House; (March 1991)
ISBN 0823408566
A brief account of the life and accomplishments of Eleanor Roosevelt.
Editorial Reviews
From Kirkus Reviews Continuing his very brief biographies, Adler presents the essential facts here in a style so succinct that it can verge on parody (``Franklin's mother Sara often told Franklin and Eleanor what to do...Eleanor didn't complain, but later she refused to be bossed around''). Casilla's skillfully composed watercolors capture the pathos in many of the situations, ..." Copyright 1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
From Horn Book Highlights from Eleanor Roosevelt's life told in simple sentences are accompanied by colorful illustrations that capture the ungainliness of this strong-minded, purposeful woman. -- Copyright 1991 The Horn Book, Inc. All rights reserved.
A Picture Book of Jackie Robinson by David A. Adler, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 - 29 pages Reprint edition (March 1997) Holiday House; 
Paperback
ISBN 0823413047
School & Library Binding (September 1994)
ISBN 0823411222
A Picture Book of Rosa Parks (Picture Book Biography) by David A. Adler, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 - 30 pages Reprint edition (April 1995) Holiday House; 
Paperback ISBN: 082341177X
School & Library Binding (September 1993)
ISBN: 0823410412
Editorial Reviews From Horn Book More than a brief biography of Rosa Parks, the portrait provides a glimpse into the era of Jim Crow laws and segregation, in which Parks was born. With simple details, Adler recites the facts of Parks's life and emphasizes her strong, pivotal role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott -- an action dominated by the leadership of the young Martin Luther King, Jr. Casilla's colorful drawings complement the text. -- Copyright 1994 The Horn Book, Inc. All rights reserved.
A Picture Book of Jesse Owens (Picture Book Biographies) by David A. Adler, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 - 29 pages (September 1992) Holiday House;
School & Library Binding
ISBN: 082340966X
Paperback (Dec.1993)
ISBN: 0823410668
Jesse Owens started life as a poor sharecropper's son and through hard work, skill, and determination, grew up to become an award-winning sprinter and champion of the long jump. During the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, he won four gold medals, then returned to racial prejudice in the U.S.
Editorial Reviews
From Horn Book Enlivened by vigorous watercolors of Olympic scenes, this brief book covers the athletic prowess, historic Olympic achievements, and rise to national prominence of a sharecropper's son who had to work to overcome frustrations of prejudicial social systems at home and abroad. -- Copyright 1993 The Horn Book, Inc. All rights reserved.
A Picture Book of John F. Kennedy (Picture Book Biography) by David A. Adler, Robert F. Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 Holiday House; 
Paperback Reprint edition (October 1992)
ISBN: 0823409767
School & Library Binding (October 1991)
ISBN: 0823408841
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal " As with his previous picture-book biographies, Adler presents a brief, clearly written text that provides basic information about his subject in an appealing format. He mentions that Kennedy was not a good student during his early school days and that as a young senator, women came to the senate just to watch him. The narrative concentrates on Kennedy's achievements, is free of fictionalization, and lends itself equally well to reading aloud, recreational reading, or reports. Casilla's watercolors are full-color copies of famous photographs ...". --Jean H. Zimmerman, Willett School, South River, NJ
OTHER BOOKS
The Pool Party by Gary Soto, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 9-12 Paperback (July 1995) Yearling Books; 
ISBN: 044041010X
When Rudy Herrera is invited to a pool party by Tiffany, the school's richest and most popular girl, his father coaches him in how to act and talk, and Rudy wonders what to bring as a gift.
Editorial Reviews
From Kirkus Reviews The Herreras are living in a Fresno, California barrio, when Tiffany Perez, one of the richest kids in school, invites Rudy Herrera to a pool party. His whole family helps him get ready: Grandfather (El Shorty) advises that a pool party is when a bunch of guys get together and shoot pool; older sister Estela urges an improvement in manners lest Rudy embarrass the whole family; his father finds a huge inner tube to take along and tries to teach Rudy how to make small talk; but when the big day comes, the boy's main concern is having a good time. This Latino family has an exemplary warmth and dignity; no matter how often Grandfather tells the same stories, they listen politely; and they all pitch in when Father needs help with his gardening jobs." Work is honorable,'' Grandfather asserts as he shows hands rough as bark. Mexican-American colloquialisms sprinkled throughout the dialogue (and nicely defined by the context--no glossary this time) give it an authentic, playful tone. Engaging, gently humorous--with plenty of realistic full-page drawings and a jacket that's sure to attract readers. (Fiction. 7-10) -- Copyright 1993, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
Jalapeno Bagels by Natasha Wing, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) Reading level: Ages 4-8 Hardcover (June 1996) Atheneum; 
ISBN: 0689805306
Editorial Reviews
From Booklist It's International Day at school, and Pablo wants to bring a treat from his parents' panderia to share with his classmates. Should he bring his mother's wonderful pan dulce or a challah, which his father has shown him how to braid? What about his favorite chango bars or some of the jalapeno bagels he and his parents make together? Pablo's final choice isn't much of a surprise, but Wing's simple, affectionate portrait of a mixed family should have wide general appeal and be of great interest to grown-ups in search of good books that show ethnically diverse families. Casilla's warm, glowing paintings capture the individuality of each character with both subtlety and expression. A glossary of Spanish and Yiddish terms (which have been italicized in the text) is an added bonus. Stephanie Zvirin
From Horn Book
For International Day at school, Pablo wants a treat from his family's bakery to reflect his culture. But he cannot decide between his Mexican mother's and his Jewish father's wonderful baked goods. After great internal debate, Pablo finally decides on jalapeo bagels -- a perfect -- if purposive -- mixture of both parents, just like him. Realistic watercolors entice with delectable goodies; luckily, recipes are included. Glos. -- Copyright 1996 The Horn Book, Inc. All rights reserved.
The Little Painter of Sabana Grande by Patricia Maloney Markun, Robert Casilla (Illustrator) 
ASIN: 0027622053
Once Fernanco has made his own paints and bought new brushes, he realizes that he has no paper, so he decides to brighten the whole village of Sabana Grande with his artwork.
Editorial Reviews
From Horn Book
After learning how to mix paints in school, a young Panamanian boy decides to paint a picture -- until he discovers he has no paper. But the smooth walls of his adobe house are almost as good, and Fernando soon covers them with images from the forest around him. Based on a true story, the text, aided by realistic watercolors, conveys the flavor of a small Panamanian village. -- Copyright 1993 The Horn Book, Inc. All rights reserved.
Presentations ILLUSTRATOR SCHOOL VISITS
There are many things about being a children's book illustrator that I enjoy.One of those things is doing the art for children's books. I also enjoy visiting schools and getting to meet the children and teachers that are familiar with my books.
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In my school visits, I do a presentation called,?"How I Illustrate a Children's Book."
I begin by introducing several of the book that I have illustrated. I will then show the class a manuscript with changes made by the editor. Then I'll read a portion of the story. I'll asks the children to listen carefully and to try to visualize what I read to them.
Then I'll show the class what I visualized from the story by doing a quick (thumbnail) sketch, roughly indicating where the type is going to be within the picture. I'll show a pencil version of the book with the type included, which is the dummy book.
Next I'll show a photo copy of the finished drawing which is much more detailed than the thumbnail sketch and is the actual drawing in which I painted with watercolor.
I read the featured book out loud while I show them the original art work from the book. At times I'll pause and explain other things involved in a particular illustration. The children will get to compare the original art to the finished book. A Q and A session will follow. If time permits I will do a quick drawing. Sometimes I'll bring a book in progress to show the class.
For larger groups I incorporate a brief slide presentation or PowerPoint. By the end of the presentation, the children and adults/teachers will have a basic understanding of how I approach the challenge of illustrating a children's book from the manuscript to the thumbnail sketches to the dummy book and then the final product.
The Professional Fee is $900 for 4-5 sessions, plus travel expenses.
Contact
Robert Casilla
5 Erin Drive
New Fairfield, CT 06812
Studio phone number (203) 312-0635
Fax (203) 312-0780
mailto:robert@robertcasilla.comWeb Site http://www.robertcasilla.com
To return to state page click HERE. 07/28/08 date last edited
Illustrator Robert Casilla talks about his work at Cottage Lane School.