The Smeds and the Smoos (Relié)

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have created many of the world's best-loved picture books, including The Gruffalo, Stick Man and Zog. Julia started life as a singer and songwriter and is renowned for the perfection of her rhymes and the brilliance of her storytelling. She has been awarded a CBE for services to literature and was a much-praised Children's Laureate. Julia frequently dresses up as mice, dragons and witches, as she performs her stories to children all round the world.

Axel is one of the most celebrated illustrators in the world and has illustrated well over a hundred books. He has received numerous awards for his witty, humorous pictures, and has created many illustrations in support of wildlife, literacy and refugee charities. He is particularly fond of drawing squirrels.