Describe your latest project.One night as I was about to go to bed, I began to wonder how other animals sleep. I found out that they are not the same at all! Do you want to know the different ways they sleep? Then simply follow the Watchful Owl through A Book of Sleep, and he will show you around!
If you could choose any story to live in, which story would it be? Why?
It would have to be Alice in Wonderland. I don't normally like having adventures, but that is one story I would like to find myself in.
Describe your most memorable teacher.
I would say Martin Ursell, who was my tutor when I studied at Chelsea College. Two years later, we met again in Kingston University when he came as a visiting tutor. He encouraged and advised me, and helped me to find what I am capable of. I could not be who I am without him.
Another person is Rebecca Bromley. We studied together at both Chelsea College and Kingston University. I have always admired her work and still do. I have to say that I have learned a lot from her. Although we have different styles, she was the one who inspired me most when I first began as an illustrator.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an architect when I was a kid. I was so interested in the design of houses. If I could, I would still love to design my own home someday.
Why do you write books for kids?
I don't have a special answer for this — just because I like it. I enjoy the very moments that I draw. I always find it tough at the beginning, but when everything is on track, that's real heaven.
Name the best Simpsons episode of all time, and explain why it's the best.
It would be so stingy to choose only one episode! I love them all! The show has the best animation ever. No need to explain any further — just watch!
If you could be someone else, who would that be, and why?
When I was a student, I thought Tim Burton was a true genius. And I still do. I used to wonder what his life was like, what he is thinking or what he is doing when he is not working or creating. Even if it was nothing special, I wouldn't be disappointed.
If you could choose, what would be your last meal?
Nothing very special — just a meal made by my mum. I would want to have all my family sitting around a small table.
If you could have lunch with a person of your choosing — living or dead, fictitious or real — who would it be?
I would like to have lunch with illustrator Sara Fanelli. When I met her once in a seminar, she was like a normal woman who might live next door. Shy. But when she speaks about her work, she smiles and looks like she enjoys it.
I actually have many more people I'd like to meet, but I can't quite make up my