James Mayhewhas been creating books for children for over 30 years. He loves experimenting with different techniques and finding just the right approach for each new project. He created the bestsellingKatieandElla Bellapicture book series, and most recently wrote and illustratedOnce Upon ATune: Stories from the Orchestra(Otter-Barry Books, 2021)which has been widely acclaimed internationally.James is also the illustrator of theMrs Noahbooks by Jackie Morris, Ian Eagleton'sNen and the Lonely Fisherman, and theGaspard the Foxbooks, by Zeb Soanes. Alongside his work in publishing, James works with a variety of musicians and symphony orchestras, presenting concerts that incorporate music and art created live on stage, illustrating classics likeWilliam Tell, Peer GyntandScheherazade. He presents the BBC online seriesDrawn to Music, for the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. Jameslives with his husband, Toto, and Diva the dog, in Suffolk - where the big skies and gentle light are perfect for artists.