Liniers is an Argentine cartoonist whose daily comic strip Macanudo has been running in the newspaper La Nación since 2002. He is a 2018 recipient of the Inkpot Award for his contributions to the comics world, and illustrator of the 2024 picture book The Truth About the Couch, by Adam Rubin.
My favorite work by Liniers is this trio of graphic novels for young readers, published by TOON Books. They're all great for reading aloud, and for kids to read on their own when they can. You can feel the care and tenderness that Liniers has for his characters, and easily imagine how fun it must have been to illustrate their stories. Enjoy these beautiful books with the children in your life (or on your own as I've done many times!).
Written and Drawn by Henrietta
From TOON Books: Reading books is fun...but what about making them? Armed with new colored pencils, Henrietta's ready to try. Peek over her shoulder as she draws the story of a brave young girl, a three-headed monster, and an impossibly wide world of adventure. Whether read aloud to a toddler or discovered by a young reader, Liniers’ celebration of the creative process is sure to make everyone want to bring out their pencils.
From TOON Books: When her little sister, Clemmie, refuses to go out in the rain, Matilda sets out to teach her all the delights of a wet Saturday. But after her enthusiasm leads her to make a big mistake, it’s Matilda who will end up learning an unforgettable lesson. The world-renowned cartoonist Liniers gives us a funny and sweet portrait of his daughters that is sure to become every beginning reader’s favorite story.
From TOON Books: What happens while you’re sleeping? Your toys go out to play! After a long day of jumping in the leaves and reading her favorite books, this little girl is worn out – but her favorite stuffed animal, Planet, is just getting started. Planet befriends a dog, gobbles a cookie, and takes a leap into the unknown. This tender, gorgeous tale by the internationally renowned cartoonist Liniers will reveal to early readers the wonders that exist at night, in secret, after they close their eyes.
