Aaron Becker (American, b. 1974)
Griffin Escape, 2014
Sketch for Return, Candlewick Press, 2016
Pencil on paper
Stamped with artist's seal bottom right corner
Sheet 11 x 17 inches
Copyright © Aaron Becker

Aaron Becker begins each illustration with a loose pencil sketch to capture the energy he wants to convey in the final artwork. This sketch from Becker's book Return (2016)---the final title in his Journey trilogy---depicts the heroes escaping their nemesis on the back of a magical griffin. Becker completed Return while living in Granada, taking inspiration from Spain's Moorish architecture---he could see the stone walls of the Alhambra palace from his house.

Becker's book Journey (2013) won a Caldecott Honor and was named a Notable Children's Book in 2014 by the American Library Service for Children. The artist has led many lively storytimes at The Carle.



All proceeds benefit The Carle's mission to instill a love of art and reading through picture books.

Artwork is framed by R. Michelson Galleries using archival materials.

Winners can take their artwork immediately after The Carle Honors. Absentee winners will receive their artwork via Federal Express; a flat shipping fee of $150 per artwork will apply.