JOSE ARUEGO

I am the Librarian at B'nai Shalom Day School in Greensboro, NC. I found one of the books that Jose Aruego and his wife illustrated. He signed the copy in 1992 and drew a small picture. I was hoping our students could send him their pictures and let him know we still have his book. I was sad to learn of his passing, but grateful to learn more about his life in my search for him.

He was at a speaking engagement in San Antonio that I attended. I asked him to come to talk to the teachers at my elementary school. Without hesitation, he accepted and stayed about two hours discussing his art, and signing books, etc. He was so kind and generous. Did not charge us. It made a huge impact on our teachers. I still have a picture he drew and signed from 1993 (Nov.) RIP to a talented and special man.

I am an elementary teacher and have always loved Jose's books! I actually had the chance to meet him when he visited my school in Lancaster, PA. It was quite the experience! He will be missed by so many.

My 30 year old daughter and I just picked up a used copy of Leo the Late Bloomer at a library give away on Block Island, Rhode Island. I had read the book before but my daughter had not. We were both captivated by it and it´s wonderful message and we are now Jose Aruego fans and plan to explore his many amazing creations. Can´t wait!!! May his memory be blessed.

Leo the Late Bloomer is one of my all-time favorites. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent to the world. Many generations loved your books. God bless you po.

I have a book Rockabye Crocodile which is signed by Jose. Bought for my children in 1997- I'm now reading it to my first grand daughter and just discover this talented caring author has passed. May peace be with his family.

Mr Aruego came to the school district where I previously lived about 25 years ago. I was privileged to spend the day with him, witnessing the joy of his craft that he shared with both students and educators.
I now read the same autographed books to my grandchildren. They have withstood the test of time, with topics still pertinent today. And the personalized illustration with his signature still brings a smile to us.

I was unaware of Mr. Aruegos passing a few years ago. I was just talking to my girlfriend about how when I was a kid an illustrator for a book that I loved as a child, Mitchell is moving, came and visited my class in my schools library and left quite the impression on me. He fueled my budding passion for illustration myself.

I'm happy to read that he continued to lead a wonderful and productive life in the more than 30 years since he made his impression on my young self. I know this...

I've always looked up to Mr. Aruego - He made us Filipino children's book illustrators SO PROUD.

He once visited Manila and I remember I would take every opportunity to see him and attend his "talks". He was incredibly generous.

He once gave a talk at the Ateneo grade school and did a little drawing trick for the school children - he would make drawings out of letters!

I was so impressed and the truth is, i now do this same "trick" that i learned from Mr. Aruego (i hope...