Andrew McDonald is a Melbourne writer and author of books for young readers. In 2009 he published his hilarious debut middle-grade novel, The Greatest Blogger in the World, about a kid called Charlie who wants to use his blog to Be the Hero, Get the Girl and Save the Day.

Son of Death is his second novel, a black comedy about grim reaping, family responsiblity and rock'n'roll. Andrew is a graduate of RMIT's Professional Writing and Editing course. He has worked for Readings bookshop in Melbourne and the flagship Foyles bookshop in London as a children's bookseller. He currently sits on the Victorian committee of the Australian Children's Laureate program and intermittently volunteers with 100 Story Building, a centre for young writers in Melbourne's inner-west.

He is a regular presenter on the school circuit and has appeared on panels and in workshops at the Melbourne Writer's Festival and Emerging Writer's Festival. He has previously judged the Young Audult category of the Victorian Premier's Literary Awards and the Centre for Youth Literature's Inky Awards.

Ben Wood is the hugely talented illustrator responsible for bringing Squishy Taylor to life in illustration! Ben has been illustrating kid’s books for over a decade and has worked with many Australian authors, including the likes of Margaret Wild.

Ben’s charming and expressive illustrations capture Squishy’s cheeky confidence and laidback nature. The vibrancy and energy that Ben puts into all his work perfectly mirrors Ailsa’s writing style – his detailed, movement-filled internal illustrations are the ideal companion to these wonderful stories.

Fun fact: A twin himself, Ben completely relates to Squishy’s relationship with her twin step-sisters, giving him an extra-special insight into this family dynamic!