Terry Denton, the renowned Australian illustrator and author best known for his work on the Treehouse series, has died at the age of 76. Denton passed away on Monday, surrounded by his family, according to a statement from his publisher, Curtis Brown.

Over the course of his career, Denton authored and illustrated more than 30 books, including the popular Gasp! series, which was adapted for television. He also collaborated with notable Australian authors such as Mem Fox, Paul Jennings, and Gillian Rubinstein.

Denton’s impact on children’s literature was reflected in tributes from his family and colleagues. His children described him as an artist whose work “gave joy to millions of children around the world” and expressed gratitude that his stories will continue to inspire future generations, including his own grandchildren. “After all those stories and all those lives he touched, he always came home to us,” they said.

Andy Griffiths, author of the Treehouse series and a longtime friend and collaborator, paid tribute to Denton’s creative spirit and humor. Griffiths recalled their three decades of working and performing together as a time filled with laughter and shared joy. He described Denton as “a true clown” who was beloved both personally and as a character in their books. Griffiths noted that the illustrator’s talent was crucial to his own success, recalling how Denton’s illustrations helped secure the publication of Griffiths’s first book in 1993 after several rejections.

Denton is survived by his wife, Kristen; his children Max, Imogen, and Eve; and his grandchildren Georgia, Lucy, Charlie, Alfie, and Felix. His work and collaborations remain a significant part of Australian children’s literature, leaving a lasting legacy through stories cherished by readers nationwide and beyond.