Jabutis Awards

After such an intense and busy 2024, it’s amazing to wrap up the year with some great news to share with you.

The Jabuti Prize is the most traditional literary prize in Brazil, awarded by the Brazilian Book Chamber each year to recognize the most outstanding authors, publishers, illustrators, graphic designers, and booksellers. The book Cabo de Guerra (Tug of War in English), which I co-authored with my partner and friend Ilan Brenman, won two categories at this year’s Jabuti Awards: Best Illustration and Best Children’s Book. The joy is immense, and this achievement feels even more special as it celebrates the book and our journey together. Ilan and I have collaborated on 19 books so far (most of them with him writing and me illustrating), but this one was even more special because we created the narrative together.

Cabo de Guerra is a wordless picture book, filled with meaning. When we created it, I was convinced it was something powerful, with the potential to touch people and even win awards. Its theme resonates on many levels – from small everyday arguments to reflections on political disagreements and wars. Seeing this work recognized is truly indescribable!

Of course, such a big milestone deserves to be celebrated with you, who always follow and support my work.

Write to me, comment, and share your thoughts. Your feedback is always so important to me. And, of course, stay tuned because 2025 promises many surprises.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a New Year filled with accomplishments!

Guilherme Karsten