German children’s literature has lost one of its most cherished storytellers. Janosch, the celebrated author and illustrator whose imaginative characters entertained generations, has died at the age of 95.
His literary agent confirmed his death on Wednesday, November 4, 2026. The writer, whose real name was Horst Eckert, created some of Germany’s most recognisable children’s book characters.
His stories explored friendship, love and imagination, earning him a special place in the country’s literary culture. Moreover, his books reached readers far beyond Germany through translations into more than 30 languages.
Janosch and the Characters That Captured Generations
Writing under the pen name Janosch, Eckert introduced several memorable characters that became familiar to children and adults alike.
Among his most celebrated creations was Tigerente, also known as the Tiger Duck. The character appeared as a striped wooden toy duck on wheels, pulled along by a string.
Tiger Duck featured in numerous books and became one of the author’s most recognisable creations. Consequently, the character developed into an enduring part of German children’s culture.
Another major success came with his 1978 children’s book, “Oh, wie schoen ist Panama”, known internationally as “The Trip to Panama”.
The story follows two friends, Little Bear and Little Duck, who embark on a journey with Tiger Duck accompanying them. Over the years, the book became a classic of German children’s literature.
According to his literary agency, Janosch’s books received numerous awards and reached audiences in more than 30 languages.
German President Pays Tribute to Janosch
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier paid tribute to the late author, highlighting the imagination and emotional connection behind his work.
He praised Janosch’s “unbridled imagination” and reflected on the loss his death represents.
Steinmeier said that “our world has become a little poorer” with his passing.
He also described the writer’s lasting influence on readers across generations.
“For countless children, for countless adults who live with children, and for everyone who has not forgotten how to marvel and wonder, Janosch has been -— and remains —- a companion through life like few other authors or illustrators,” Steinmeier said.
His tribute reflected how Janosch’s stories connected with both young readers and adults who continued to cherish his work.
A Difficult Childhood Behind His Imaginative Stories
Horst Eckert was born in 1931 in Upper Silesia, a region that belonged to Germany at the time but is now part of Poland.
Following Nazi Germany’s defeat in 1945, his family moved westward, like many German-speaking families from the region. He subsequently grew up in West Germany and studied in Munich.
Although his books often celebrated warmth, friendship and love, his childhood experiences were considerably different.
In a 2017 interview, Janosch described his upbringing as deeply difficult. He spoke about a violent, alcoholic father and an austere, strictly disciplined mother.
Reflecting on those experiences, he described his childhood as “hell”.
The contrast between his personal struggles and the warmth of his literary creations added another dimension to his life story.
Janosch Spent His Later Years in Tenerife
Janosch had lived in Tenerife, part of Spain’s Canary Islands, since 1980. He shared his life there with his wife, Ines, while remaining known internationally for his literary contributions.
His death marks the end of a remarkable journey that transformed simple stories into lasting childhood memories.
Through Tiger Duck, Little Bear, Little Duck and other imaginative creations, Janosch left behind a literary legacy that crossed generations and national borders.
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