Anna Schmitt Funke began her career as an art conservator. Now, however, her love of books and publishing has caught up with her. As the daughter of Cornelia Funke, Anna often translates her mother's books from German into English, as well as doing additional editorial work. She lives in Berlin, Germany, with her husband, daughter, and two cats.

Ruby Warnecke lives with her family in Hamburg, Germany, where she also completed her Masters in Illustration. During her studies, Ruby spent a year abroad in Baltimore and discovered the joy of creating art for children. Ruby is part of Cornelia Funke's Artists in Residence program.

"Illustrator Ruby Warnecke brings these and many more whimsical beasts to life with bright colours, soft lines, and colour palettes and patterns that reflect the cultures and nations from which the creatures originate. Her illustrations capture the magic and leave room for readers to imagine even more mystical details."-- "DC Canada Education Publishing"

"Offers a welcome focus on monsters more often misunderstood than malign."-- "Kirkus Reviews"

"[A]pproachable and intriguing for cryptozoologists of all ages."-- "Publishers Weekly"

"[Encourages] wonder and imagination in young readers"-- "Children's Literature "