Eric Maddern studied sociology and psychology at Sheffield University, then spent ten years travelling around the world. He now performs all over the country as a storyteller and folk singer, and he has built a roundhouse in the grounds of his home in Wales, where he holds storytelling events. Eric Maddern's previous titles for Frances Lincoln include Earth Story (which is also available in big book format), Curious Clownfish, Rainbow Bird, The Fire Children and Spirit of the Forest, co-written with Helen East. Leo Duff was born and brought up in Belfast. She studied at Brighton University and then went on to take an MA in illustration at the Royal College of Art. Since then she has become an internationally renowned illustrator working in a range of areas including children's books, adult non-fiction and magazines, and her work has been exhibited widely at home and abroad. Her previous books for children include Earth Story, also written by Eric Maddern.