Heinz Janisch was born in Austria in 1960 and studied German literature in Vienna. He has published numerous books, including many children's titles, which have been translated into more than twelve languages. He was nominated for the 2009 Lindgren Memorial Award and has been nominated for the 2010 Hans Christian Andersen Award. In 2008 he received the Austrian picture book award. Lisbeth Zwerger is one of the most highly regarded illustrators of children's books and was awarded the Hans Christian Andersen Medal in 1990 to recognize her lifetime contribution to children's literature. She has adapted and illustrated numerous books, including Alice in Wonderland, The Little Mermaid, The Night Before Christmas, The Selfish Giant, and Tales from the Brothers Grimm.