Edwin Fontánez is an award-winning author, illustrator, and designer. This multi-faceted artist of Puerto Rican descent has carved out an impressive niche within Latin American literature for children and young adults alike. Fontánez’s writing career has touched on many themes, from the beautiful tropical landscape of his native island, to nature, animals, and poetry. Throughout his professional career, he has also authored and illustrated original stories inspired by the culture and folklore of Puerto Rico. Eager to create his own imprint for his original style, Fontánez founded Exit Studio Publishing in 1994. Through his company and inspiring literary achievements, Fontánez is reaching new generations of readers and encouraging them to assert their cultural identity, recognize their traditions, and share them with the world. Born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, Fontánez earned a BA in Fine Arts at the School of Plastic Arts in San Juan. He also holds an Associate degree in Communication Design from Pratt Institute in New York.

International Latino Book Awards Winner for Best YA Novel (Spanish) and Best Cover Design for “El Bosque Iluminado” (2017)

International Latino Book Awards Finalist for Best YA Novel (English) for “The Illuminated Forest” (2015)

ForeWord Clarion Five Star Review for “The Illuminated Forest” (2015)

ForeWord Children’s Picture Book Award for "On This Beautiful Island" (2006)