David McKee's first book was published in 1964. His books are now published in many languages throughout the world, and several of them have been adapted for television. He is one of the leading contemporary children's book creators.

David McKee was born and brought up in South Devon, where he went from grammar school to Plymouth Art College. Whilst still at college he started selling one-off cartoons to newspapers and on graduation, he began to contribute to such publications as Punch, Times Education Supplement and the Reader's Digest.

His first book, Two Can Toucan was published in 1964 and since then he has written and illustrated numerous children's books. His books include the popular best-selling Elmer series, Not Now Bernard and King Rollo. David also illustrates for a number of other writers including Michael Bond's Paddington Bear.