Neal Layton was born in Chichester. He took a Foundation course in Art and Design at Northbrook College of Art and Design and then went on to do a BA in Graphic Design at the University of Northumbria at Newcastle. He later took an MA in illustration (in which he gained a distinction Central Saint Martin's College, London

In the past he has worked on a lettuce farm, in a chocolate factory, a teapot factory and has delivered papers. He now lives in Eton, Berkshire with his girlfriend who is also an artist. His studio is a room in their house where he can make a creative mess. Its walls are covered with images, drawings, scribbles, badges, photos, posters - anything that he finds inspiring.

"I like things that are funny and stupid and nonsense and sensible and sensical and meaningful all at the same time. I like my work to be about the things I like. I hope my books can be enjoyed by adults and children. For me a good book should appeal, amuse and have meaning for people of all ages."

That Rabbit Belongs to Emily Brown, written by Cressida Cowell, tells the story of Emily Brown and her much-loved toy rabbit, Stanley. When the Queen steals Stanley, Emily sets out to get him back and teach that naughty queen a valuable lesson. For Orchard Books, Neal has also illustrated Race Day, written by Gwen Grant.

Bibliography

Race Day That Rabbit Belongs to Emily Brown

Copyright © 2006: The Watts Publishing Group.