Michael Moniz spent his childhood living between the big city and the tranquil Azores islands of Portugal. He has written and illustrated several picture books, including Wazzyjump (a 2014 Canadian Toy Testing Council Recommended Read), The Boy and the Whale, and The Cardinal and the Crow (a Spring 2015 Canadian Children's Book Centre Best Books for Kids and Teens selection), as well as the YA novel The Whalemaster. When Michael is not telling stories, he works as an Artistic Director for a Toronto-based advertising agency.
Praise for the hardcover edition of Wazzyjump: A Canadian Toy Testing Council 2014 Recommended Read selection! Sublime. Kirkus Reviews STARRED REVIEW! Michael Moniz's Wazzyjump is a delightful tale of mystery, discovery, and friendship. The story of Wazzyjump and his woodland friends is cute and charming. The illustrations are full of happy innocence, and they really highlight the talents of Moniz and his passion for painting. The wonder of Wazzyjump is present in each page of this tale, and it will be a great read for those looking for a good story told in a classically magical way. CM Magazine 4/4 STARS REVIEW! This is a gentle and appealing book, one with a clear message about the power of having fun. Quill & Quire Moniz has created a delightful folktale in Wazzyjump. His charming watercolor paintings are enchanting and complement the warm feeling of the story perfectly. The liveliness of the playful animals is conveyed in the paintings as well, and the delicate scrollwork in both the letter and the paintings add to the old-fashioned appeal of the story. Wazzyjump would be a beautiful addition to any folktale collections. Resource Links