Britannica’s Baby Encyclopedia

About Britannica GroupSally SymesHanako Clulow

Sally Symes worked for many years as a designer of children's books before turning her skills to writing them. She's the author of previous Britannica books, including First Big Book of Why. Her collaborations with Nick Sharratt have won several awards, including The Educational Writers' Award for The Gooey, Chewy, Rumble, Plop Book, and The Southampton Favourite Book to Share Award for Something Beginning with Blue. She works from a shed in Sussex, accompanied by her grumpy cat.

Hanako Clulow studied for a degree in Psychology at Goldsmiths College, University of London, before her passion for art re-emerged and led her to pursue a life as an illustrator. She enjoys drawing simple and bold character designs that appeal to children, and her projects have ranged from board books to illustrated non-fiction books and children’s clothing. Hanako is based in Titirangi, Auckland, New Zealand.

Dr Amanda Gummer has a PhD in Neuropsychology, the Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education and over 20 years’ experience working with children and families. Having worked in children’s industries for many years, Amanda is now widely considered as the UK’s go-to expert on play, toys and child development. She can regularly be seen in the media, including BBC News, Sky News, The Daily Mail and many more, offering advice on news stories and issues surrounding children, families and child development.