Keturah Ariel Bobo, Beloved Illustrator of I Am Enough, Passes Away at 45.
Bobo’s illustrations in I Am Enough stood out for their bold visuals and empowering messages for girls of color, resonating widely in both impact and popularity.
Artist and illustrator Keturah Ariel Nailah Bobo has passed away at 45 after a long illness, her family announced.
The Ohio native gained widespread recognition for her work on the New York Times bestselling children’s book I Am Enough, written by Grace Byers. Her illustrations, featuring bold imagery and uplifting messages, resonated deeply—particularly with young girls of color—making the book both a commercial hit and a cultural milestone.
In an Instagram post, Bobo’s family shared the heartbreaking news with fans and followers. Respecting her “deeply private soul,” they chose not to disclose details about the circumstances of her passing. Instead, they invited others to honor her memory by celebrating her life through art.
In the years after the release of I Am Enough, Bobo became a sought-after illustrator for projects that aimed to reflect a multicultural perspective. She frequently participated in book festivals and public events, where she spoke about the importance of creating art that nurtures self-esteem in young readers.
Throughout her career, she illustrated ten children’s books, including The Night Is Yours by Abdul-Razak Zachariah, A Is for All the Things You Are by Anna Hinely Ferguson, and I Believe I Can by Grace Byers.
Bobo’s illustration style was celebrated for its warmth, inclusivity, and emotional resonance. As both a mother and an artist, her work often centered on themes of empowerment, affirmation, and visibility—particularly for Black children who were rarely reflected in mainstream picture books.
In a 2024 interview with the online publication Matter, Bobo shared her motivation: “I want to make sure my son sees characters that represent who he is or who he could potentially be,” she said. “And you don’t realize how important that idea is unless you don’t have it.”
Her legacy has left a lasting imprint on children’s literature, especially in the push for greater visual representation. Though her life was tragically brief, her contributions continue to resonate. As of publication, no details regarding arrangements have been announced.
