M. P. Robertson was born in Parsons Green, London. He studied Graphic Design at Hounslow Borough College, where he discovered a love for illustrated books. After leaving Hounslow he spent a year drawing in museums, cathedrals and on the underground before specialising in illustration at Kingston Polytechnic. Among the influences on his style are Mervyn Peake, Heath Robinson and Odile Redon. He believes that more than merely decorating a book, illustration should be integral to the narrative. Among is books for Frances Lincoln are The Egg, The Great Dragon Rescue and The Dragon Snatcher; Hieronymus Betts and his Unusual Pets, Big Brave Brian, The Sandcastle and Food Chain. He lives in Bradford on Avon with his partner and two sons. Meredith Hooper was born in Australia. An Antarctic specialist, she has made several research trips to the continent. In 2000 she was awarded the Antarctica Medal by the US Congress. Her books for Frances Lincoln include The Pebble in my Pocket, which is the only children's book ever to be shortlisted for the Dingle History of Science Book Award.