Telgemeier, Raina (1977-…), is an American author, cartoonist, and illustrator. She gained recognition for four graphic novel adaptations of the “Baby-Sitter’s Club” series of novels, written by Ann M. Martin. Telgemeier’s adaptations are Kristy’s Great Idea and The Truth About Stacey (both 2006), Mary Anne Saves the Day (2007), and Claudia and Mean Janine (2008).
Telgemeier has also created several original best-selling graphic novels for teens, including Smile (2010), Drama (2012), Sisters (2014), Ghosts (2016), and Guts (2019). These works have been praised for Telgemeier’s ability to sensitively portray the challenges that middle schoolers and high schoolers face.
Telgemeier was born on May 26, 1977, in San Francisco, California. She was interested in comics from a young age and wanted to become a cartoonist. She received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in illustration from the School of Visual Arts in New York City in 2002. From 2002 to 2005, she created her first published comics, seven short stories in the series “Take-Out.” Her work has appeared in many other comic series and anthologies.
