William Steig was a prolific American cartoonist, sculptor, and a celebrated author and illustrator of children's books. For over seven decades, he created countless cartoons for The New Yorker, earning him the title 'King of Cartoons.' Later in life, he began a new career in children's literature, winning the Caldecott Medal for Sylvester and the Magic Pebble. His most famous creation is arguably the picture book Shrek!, which inspired the blockbuster animated film series.