Mauricio de Sousa, born on October 27, 1935 in Santa Isabel, Brazil, is a renowned cartoonist recognized for his creation and development of iconic characters in the world of children's comic books. His journey into the world of comics began at a young age when he started working for a daily newspaper at the age of 17. Despite initially being assigned to crime reporting, Mauricio's true passion lay in cartoons and illustrations.
In 1959, Mauricio took a daring leap and left his job at the newspaper to focus on his own series of comic books. This decision marked the beginning of his illustrious career as a cartoonist, eventually leading to the publication of his famous "Monica's Gang" series.
One of Mauricio's most iconic creations is the series of "Monica" books, which are beloved by children and adults alike. These books feature a colorful cast of characters, each inspired by Mauricio's own life and experiences growing up in Brazil. Through Monica's Gang, Mauricio captured the hearts of readers with his engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations.
Over the years, Mauricio's contributions to the world of comics have been widely celebrated. His unique style and captivating characters have earned him a devoted fan base around the globe. In 1997, he founded the Mauricio de Sousa Cultural Institute, a testament to his commitment to using the power of comics for social good. Through the institute, Mauricio has launched numerous social action campaigns that leverage the comic book format to educate and inspire.
Outside of his professional accomplishments, Mauricio de Sousa is a family man with ten children. His close-knit family has been a constant a source of inspiration for his work, with many of his characters drawing from real-life experiences and personalities.
Mauricio's impact on the world of cartoons extends beyond his native Brazil. He was the first overseas animator to receive permission to use characters created by the legendary Osamu Tezuka, a testament to his artistic prowess and global appeal.
Today, Mauricio de Sousa remains a beloved figure in the world of comics, continuing to delight readers of all ages with his timeless stories and unforgettable characters. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of creativity and imagination, inspiring future generations of cartoonists to follow in his footsteps.