ZEP - Switzerland

Born in Switzerland on a 1stof January under the name Philippe Chappuis, he adopted the pseudonym Zep as a tribute to his favorite band, Led Zeppelin. It was also the name of a fanzine he created at the age of 12. Zep obtained a degree from the Decorative Arts School in Geneva and started publishing small stories for Spirou Magazine. Thanks to his publications in various Swiss newspapers and the now famous fanzine "Sauve qui peut!", Zep got noticed by Glénat Editions in 1992. His character "Titeuf" was then published in his own series of books. The series covers the life of Titeuf (a primary school kid), his questions and his candid thoughts, often linked to current issues, both light and serious. Success came almost immediately: publications went from 10,000 to 600,000 copies within just a few years, and the latest edition (volume 9) has sold more than a million copies; an incredible feat for such a little hero. "For city kids, sailing across the oceans is a great way to better understand their place as human beings on this great planet," says Zep, "and maybe to define their mission as one of protection of the environment. I approve!"