Traits: sharing

Alex T. Smith is the illustrator of Home, My Mom Has X-Ray Vision, and Eliot Jones, Midnight Superhero. Of his passion for art, he says, “I can't really remember not having either a pencil or a paintbrush in my hand. However, when I was five, I wrote in my school report that I didn't really like art because I got glue on my hands!” 

Hiawyn Oram is a very successful author of children's books who has a large following worldwide. Born in South Africa, Hiawyn studied English and Drama there before moving to Britain to begin a career as an advertising copywriter. Currently, Hiawyn lives in Wandsworth, South London, and has two grown-up sons.

Paula Bowles grew up playing imaginary games and making up stories with her toys and anything that came to hand. She lives in Bristol, United Kingdom, and works from her home studio where she enjoys weaving stories and bringing characters to life, giving them energy, and a sense of fun. She likes visiting new places, playing the piano, and lindy hop dancing.

Steve Metzger has written more than sixty books for young children, including The Dancing Clock and The Ice Cream King for tiger tales. Living in New York City, Steve says he’s lucky to be married to his beautiful and talented wife. Together they have a terrific daughter, who helps criticize his story ideas and lets him play with her once in a while.

Steve Smallman, a children's book illustrator for more than twenty-five years, recently began writing his own stories. He is the author of the tiger tales picture books A Very Special Hug, The Very Greedy Bee and Smelly Peter, The Great Pea Eater. Steve lives in England with his wife, four children, two dogs, and two cats.