James Dean

James Dean is the original creator and illustrator of the popular children's book character Pete the Cat. He is a self-taught artist from Fort Payne, Alabama, whose passion for drawing was evident from a young age. Dean earned a degree in electrical engineering from Auburn University and worked for Georgia Power before pursuing art full-time. He began selling his artwork at festivals and eventually created paintings of his cat, Pete, who became the inspiration for the Pete the Cat character around 1999. Dean has since illustrated numerous Pete the Cat books, many of which have become bestsellers. He is dedicated to positively affecting children's lives through his work.