Simon Puttock was born in New Zealand and wanted to be a vet when he was little, but when he grew up he became a bookseller. He was particularly interested in children's books and was chosen to be a short-listing Children's Whitbread judge. He has since written 24 children's books and was winner of the Early Years award at the Royal Mail Scottish Children's Book Awards, 2006. Russell Ayto had a varied career before turning his attention to children's book illustration. He worked as both a postman and a scientific officer. He has illustrated numerous books for children including Whiff by Ian Whybrow. He now lives and works in Cornwall with his wife and two young children.