Leo Lionni was an Italian-American author and illustrator known for his children's books. Born on May 5, 1910, in Amsterdam, he later moved to the United States, where he became a prominent figure in children's literature. His works often feature animals and convey important life lessons, making them popular among young readers. Lionni's most famous book is Frederick, a story about a mouse who gathers words instead of food for the winter. He received several awards for his contributions to literature, including the Caldecott Medal, which honors outstanding children's picture books. His unique artistic style and storytelling continue to inspire generations.