Ben Mantle began his illustration career early, picking up his first award in a local library colouring-in competition aged seven. He went on to study Animation at the Surrey Institute of Art & Design before working as an animator in children's film and television. Ben has illustrated a number of children's books including Rudey's Windy Christmas (HarperCollins) and Callum's Incredible Construction Kit (Egmont) which won the 2013 Bishop's Stortford Picture Book Award. He is also the author and illustrator of The Best Birthday Present Ever! and The Best Christmas Present Ever! for Macmillan Children's Books. Ben lives and works in Brighton.