Mermaid Academy: Amber and Flash

Julie Sykes (Author) As a child, Julie was always telling tales. Not the 'she ate all the cake not me' kind but wildly exaggerated tales of everyday events. Julie still loves telling stories. She's written over 100 books for children, some with her friend Linda Chapman, and she is published around the world. Julie lives in Cornwall with her family and a white wolf - cunningly disguised as a dog. When she's not writing she likes eating cake, reading and walking, often at the same time. Linda Chapman (Author) Linda Chapman has written over 200 books. She loves to collaborate with other writers, particularly her animal-mad friend, Julie Sykes. Linda lives in a cottage with a tower in Leicestershire with her husband, three children, three dogs and two ponies. When she's not writing, Linda likes to read, ride and see friends as well as visiting schools to talk to young readers about books and writing. Lucy Truman (Illustrator) Since graduating from Loughborough University with a degree in Illustration, Lucy Truman has become one of the UK's leading commercial illustrators. Her inspiration often comes from the very funny little people in her own life, including family holidays with her nephew as well as her own children. Lucy also draws inspiration from popular culture, fashion and all things vintage to create her fabulous artworks. She finds people-watching a huge source of help, and also very entertaining.