Evan Vladem has always loved telling stories. Long before The Illy Willies became a book, he spent his free time imagining colorful characters and adventures that celebrated teamwork, friendship, and heart.

After years of writing and dreaming - and with encouragement from family, friends, and his wife - Evan finally brought The Illy Willies to life. The story took on even deeper meaning as he became an uncle and then a soon-to-be father himself, inspiring him to create a book children and families could read together for years to come.

When he’s not writing, Evan works as a financial advisor in South Florida and enjoys tennis, travel, and time with his growing family. The Illy Willies is his debut picture book, with more adventures planned in the series.