Keith Henry Brown is an award-winning author, illustrator, and designer whose career spans comics, fine art, design, and education. A former Marvel Comics illustrator and Parsons School of Design alumnus, he has published watercolor artwork widely and later became a creative director, often inspired by his lifelong passion for jazz. Brown has designed for institutions such as Blue Note Jazz Club and Jazz at Lincoln Center, and created album covers for renowned jazz artists. He now teaches at Parsons and lives in Brooklyn. His acclaimed children’s books include Birth of the Cool and Because of You, John Lewis. His forthcoming book, Pushing Hope, will be published by Astra Publishing.  www.keithhbrown.com

Awards

School Library Journal STARRED REVIEW, Best Books of 2025: Named as one of the best books of the year in the “Gr 9 Up” (High School) category by School Library Journal. Horn Book Fanfare 2025: Selected for the Horn Book’s annual “Fanfare” list, which highlights the year’s best books for children and young adults.

3 Fun Facts

1. Lives in Brooklyn.
2. Jazz fanatic.
3. Movie lover.