John Steptoe was born on September 15, 1950 in Brooklyn, New York. As a child, John was a little unusual. Unlike most children who loved to run around and play outside, John preferred to stay inside and draw pictures. He also loved to tell stories with the pictures he had created.

John recieved his education from the High School of Art and Design in Manhattan, was a student at HARYOU-ACT Art Program and also attended the Vermont Academy. John first received national attention in 1696 when Stevie was published in Life magazine. The book was said to be, “a new kind of book for black children.”

During John Steptoe’s twenty year career, he illustrated fifteen books, ten of which he wrote. However, he was most known for his illustrations. This is due to the fact that John was one of only a handful of African American artists making a career in children's books.

John had one son and one daughter, both of whom were featured in some of his books. Sadly, John Steptoe died at the age of 39 from AIDS. For more information try: John Steptoe Teacher Resource File.