Julia Donaldson has written many of the world's most-loved picture books. The 2011-2013 UK Children's Laureate, Julia also writes fiction, songs and plays, and her live children's shows are always in demand. Julia and her husband split their time between West Sussex and Edinburgh. Axel Scheffler is an award-winning star illustrator whose instantly recognisable, warm and witty illustrations have become firm favourites of millions of children.
Born in Hamburg, Axel lives with his partner and daughter in London. Imelda Staunton is a Bafta-winning film, TV, radio and stage actor. She was the voice of Aunt Lucy in the film Paddington and played Professor Umbridge in the Harry Potter films.