Donna Gibbs is an author, editor and educator. The written word has always been at the heart of her world. She has been involved with reading, writing, teaching and talking about books for as far back as she can remember. A particular passion is picture books with their magical combination of word and image. Her publications are held in libraries and educational institutions around the world. She has written on topics as diverse as Elizabethan love poetry, children's literature, film and cyberculture. Her co-edited book Cyberlines: Languages and Cultures of the Internet has sold in more than twenty countries. A full list of publications is on her website (donnagibbsbooks.com). She retired from her role as an Associate Professor at Macquarie University in 2006 to continue as a freelance writer. Since then she has written many books for teachers and students in the areas of history, grammar, comprehension and language skills. She has also completed several works of poetry and fiction for children. She regularly reads to pre-schoolers as a volunteer at a local kindergarten. She lives in Sydney, Australia with her husband, Tony. Website: donnagibbsbooks.com

Lionel King is a retired scientist and senior executive who began his art practice while on a posting in Paris in 2010. In the perfect city for drawing, he developed a keen interest in sketching the beautiful buildings of the City of Light. With a heavy work-related travel schedule, Lionel soon found himself sketching in airports, restaurants and parks around the world as a creative counterpoint to his demanding day job. On returning to his hometown of Sydney, Lionel has continued to pursue his interest in art and is an enthusiastic watercolourist and active Urban Sketcher. When travelling, Lionel seeks out local Urban Sketchers groups and draws and paints in cities throughout Asia, Europe and America. With the encouragement, inspiration and, occasionally, tuition of this passionate and welcoming group of like-minded artists, he has continued to develop his interest and skills with pen, ink and wash. The Mice Down Under is Lionel's second children's book with Donna Gibbs. He lives in Sydney, Australia with his wife, Judy.