Andrew Smith is the award-winning author of several Young Adult novels, including the critically acclaimed Grasshopper Jungle. He is a native-born Californian who spent most of his formative years traveling the world. His university studies focused on Political Science, Journalism, and Literature. He has published numerous short stories and articles. The Alex Crow, a starred novel is his ninth novel. He lives in Southern California.

Michael Barton is a final year student studying Physics at the University of Surrey, UK. He gives talks to a wide range of audiences about his experiences of being at the high functioning end of the autistic spectrum, emphasising the positive aspects and relating these to the traits that scientists exhibit.

Michael is the author and illustrator of Its Raining Cats and Dogs, also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. He is an accomplished musician, playing jazz piano, bass guitar, French horn, drums and percussion (including spoons) with a variety of bands.

Michael is also the President of the University Judo club and is a keen rock climber. He lives in Guildford, UK.