Who is Terry Denton?
Terry Denton is an Australian illustrator and author, born in 1950, best known for illustrating the Treehouse series written by Andy Griffiths. His quick, cartoon-style drawings appear on almost every page.
Before becoming an illustrator, Denton studied architecture and worked as an animator. He began illustrating children's books in the 1980s and has worked with authors such as Paul Jennings and Morris Gleitzman.
In the Treehouse books, Denton appears as a character, Terry, who is often clumsy and easily distracted, while Andy is the narrator. Their friendly rivalry drives much of the humour.
Drawing style
Denton's black-and-white line drawings mix with the text, so pictures and words tell the story together. This style helps young and reluctant readers follow the story.
He has also written and illustrated his own books, including the Storymaze series and picture books such as Gasp!, and he has contributed to dozens of books by other authors over a long career.
Denton lives in Victoria and often appears with Andy Griffiths at book events, drawing live on stage while children watch. His work has won children's choice awards voted by young readers across Australia.
Did You Know?
Terry Denton illustrated Andy Griffiths's Just books before the Treehouse series began.