Elena Pasquali was brought up in South Wales and studied Romance languages at University. She worked for some years in children's publishing before going on to be an author in her own right. She has a special interest in researching and retelling folk tales from around the world. She enjoys exploring new cultures, travelling, and learning the languages that will help her on her way. Nicola Smee's illustrations have been shortlisted for the Sainsbury's Baby Book Award and nominated for the Booktrust Early Years Award.