Kim Lien

Huynh Kim Lien and Phung Nguyen Quang are Vietnamese illustrators who have collaborated on books published in a number of countries, often under the pen name KAA. Their illustrations are influenced by the folk culture of Vietnam and Asia. Visit them at kaaillustration.com.

Interview

What was your favorite book when you were a child?

Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales

What’s your favorite line from a book?

“You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself
any direction you choose.”
From Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss

Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?

Dr. Seuss, Tove Jansson and Mary Blair

Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?

I feel happiest when illustrating children’s books. That’s why I chose to become an illustrator.

Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?

Don’t be afraid of showing your true self.