Wilbur Monroe Leaf, known professionally as Munro Leaf, was an American writer and illustrator of children's literature. Throughout his 40-year career, he wrote and illustrated nearly 40 books, leaving a significant mark on the genre. His most famous work, The Story of Ferdinand (1936), stands out as a children's classic. Crafted on a yellow legal-length pad in less than an hour, the book became a subject of international controversy, labeled as subversive for its pacifist message. This controversy was especially pronounced in Spain and Germany, reflecting the tense political atmosphere of the times.

Leaf's signature character, Ferdinand, a Spanish bull who preferred smelling flowers to fighting, encapsulated the author's subtle critique of aggression. Written amidst the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War, the story was interpreted as a satirical attack on militarism. While it faced censorship and was even burned in Germany, the book received praise from notable figures, including Mahatma Gandhi who called it his favorite. The enduring appeal of The Story of Ferdinand is evident in its translation into over 60 languages, captivating children worldwide with its message of peace and individuality.