Terry Denton: Treehouse illustrator and beloved Australian author dies age 76
Terry Denton’s family is mourning the loss of the beloved author and illustrator as tributes pour in from across Australia’s publishing community.
Beloved Australian children’s author and illustrator Terry Denton has died age 76.
In a statement issued by his literary agency, Curtis Brown, publisher Pan Macmillan said Denton was surrounded by his loved ones when he died on Monday.
The agency’s announcement also included a touching tribute from Denton’s children, who said their Dad’s legacy will continue to bring laughter and wonder to the world.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“Dad gave joy to millions of children around the world and after all those stories and all those lives he touched, he always came home to us,” the post on behalf of Denton’s children read.
“We are so grateful that his stories will continue to live on, bringing wonder, laughter and comfort to generations yet to come and most especially to his beloved grandchildren, whoever will grow up knowing him through the magic he left behind.”
Over his prolific career, Denton authored and illustrated more than 30 books, including the Gasp! series which was adapted for television and collaborated with celebrate writers such as Mem Fox, Paul Jennings and Gillian Rubinstein.
His creative partnership with Andy Griffiths, co-creator of the Treehouse series, spanned over three decades and played a pivotal role in both authors’ success.
Griffiths was among other professionals in the publishing space to pen heartfelt words in honour of the author.
“Working – and playing – with Terry over three decades has been an incredible honour and a pure delight,” Griffiths wrote of Denton.
“I’ve never laughed so hard as I did when working with him, whether in the writing room or on stage. He was a true clown and much beloved – both in real life and as a character in the Treehouse series.
“Jill and I will miss him greatly.”
Denton’s cause of death has not been made public, but the author had suffered poor health in recent years.
