Reza Dalvand

Reza Dalvand is an internationally-recognized author and illustrator of more than 30 books for readers of all ages. Reza’s art often explores themes of child psychology, self-acceptance, social justice and self-determination. His books weave magical worlds together with realistic details, cultures and settings to entertain children while intriguing older readers. Born and raised in Iran, Reza’s work is often influenced by his Persian roots, featuring a universality that then draws global audiences. To date, his books have been published into over fifteen languages.

Books authored and/or illustrated by Reza worldwide include What Could That Be? (Scholastic/Orchard) and Mrs. Bibi’s Elephant (Flying Eye Books), Ace (Tuti Books), The Day of Your Arrival (Nube Ocho), Gulistan, Entre Toi et Moi (Les Arènes) and many, many more. Among his recent releases are I Have the Right (Scribble) a book about human rights for children, and Un Année de Fêtes (Les Arènes) by Camille Zabka, about celebrations around the world.

Reza’s illustration has received worldwide recognition; he has been longlisted for the World Illustration Awards, has been featured twice by the Bologna Exhibition Book Fair, received the Grand Prize of the Oshima Picture Book Museum Award of Japan, was a nominee for two Astrid Lindgren Memorial Awards, was highlighted at Sharjah Children Reading Festival, and many more.

A graduate of Isfahan Art University (BFA), Reza also holds a Masters in Illustration from the prestigious Tehran University, where he later served as lecturing professor. Prior to coming to the United States in 2023, Reza was the art director for several children’s publications, overseeing translation, design and publication of hundreds of books. He lives and works in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Please visit him online at RezaDalvand.com or on social media @_rezadalvand_.

Download Reza Dalvand’s Illustrator Showcase

Select praise for Reza’s work:

“In a parable both timely and ageless, a mysterious item on the forest floor excites ominous imaginings in all who come upon it. Iranian author/illustrator Dalvand depicts trees and figures in shimmering, almost luminescent colours to make the item, a small black lump, look all the more enigmatic … a simple play on a provocative notion, with art in pleasingly vivid hues.”

―Kirkus Reviews, What Could That Be? (Scholastic), originally published by Baobab Books in Switzerland

“Reza Dalvand’s book is a stunning work of remarkable colour and verve which feels fresh, stylish and sophisticated.”

―BookTrust, Mrs. Bibi’s Elephant (Flying Eye Books)

“A tender, beautifully illustrated picture book depicting adoption as a way to grow a family.”

―Kirkus, The Day of Your Arrival (NubeOcho)