Catherine Emmett grew up in Newcastle and spent her childhood reading books. . After advising a group of young girls to find a career they loved, she decided to take her own advice, and packed up her husband and three sons, moving to rural Essex where she started writing picture books.

Her first story is called King of the Swamp, and is illustrated by Ben Mantle.

Ben Mantle began his illustration career early, picking up his first award in a local library colouring-in competition aged seven. He went on to study Animation at the Surrey Institute of Art & Design before working as an animator.

Ben has illustrated a number of children's books including Rudey's Windy Christmas (HarperCollins) and Callum's Incredible Construction Kit (Egmont) which won the 2013 Bishop's Stortford Picture Book Award. He is also the creator of the award-winning The Best Birthday Present Ever! and The Best Christmas Present Ever! published by Macmillan Children's Books. Ben lives and works in Brighton.