Let's make this birthday one to remember.

81 years old (Born on December 29, 1943)

Happy Birthday, Molly Bang! You’ve illustrated your way into our hearts over the years with vibrant colors and imaginative stories—so many children (and adults) have giggled, pondered, and stayed awake turning pages because of you. Three-time runner-up for that elusive American Caldecott Medal? Clearly they're just building suspense for your grand-win reveal!

You're like the Leonardo da Vinci for little readers: creating images so timeless they've earned permanent residence in childhood memories worldwide. Today we're honoring every brush stroke you've made magical, every page you turned delightful—and secretly hoping you'll illustrate cake slices big enough to share through the pages next time!