FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Markham, ON (October 30, 2014) —The New York Times Book Review has published its annual list of the 10 Best Illustrated Children’s Books of 2014. This year’s list includes Canadian artist Rogé who is being honoured for his evocative illustrations in Haiti My Country (Fifth House Publishers, May 2014). For several months Rogé prepared a series of portraits of Haitian children which accompany poems written by students of Camp Perrin in this beautiful collection of art and poetry. Haiti My Country reflects the indomitable spirit of the people of Haiti. It is our hope that this book will help to remind people of both the issues still facing Haiti and the strength and determination of the Haitian people.

“The prize awarded by the prestigious New York Times has deeply moved me. It is an immense honour to have been recognized by such a large organization. Obviously, the impact of such news is invaluable in terms of its illuminating effect upon my career as an illustrator. This is beyond all my hopes.” – Rogé (translated from the original French)

Rogé began his career as an art director for an advertising agency. He now devotes himself to illustration, painting and writing. His extensive body of work has earned him numerous awards including the prestigious Governor General Literary Award in 2006 for his illustrations in Le gros monstre qui aimait trop lire (Taming Horrible Harry). His other books include The French Fry King and Mingan My Village. Rogé lives with his family in Québec. For more information about Rogé and his work, visit www.roge.ca.

Haiti My Country, along with the other titles being honoured, will be featured in the November 19th Sunday Times Book Review in a special Children’s Books section.

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For more information, please contact:
Winston Stilwell, Publicist
(905) 477-9700 ext. 258
winston@fitzhenry.ca
Fifth House Publishers