Benjamin Zephaniah (1958-2023) was a performer, musician, actor and one of the UK's best-known poets. Born in Handsworth, Birmingham, Benjamin began writing and performing at the age of 11, and had his first collection of poetry published when he was 22. He wrote more than 30 books for adults and children, and is known all over the world for his powerful writing and performances.
Benjamin was a founding member of Artists Against Apartheid, and in 1996 he hosted the President's Two Nations Concerts at the Royal Albert Hall in London, UK, at the request of Nelson Mandela. On August 29th 2007, he was the Master of Ceremonies at the unveiling of the statue of Nelson Mandela, again at his request, in Parliament Square. Benjamin was also a musician and was the first person to record with the Wailers after the death of musician, Bob Marley.
As well as writing poetry, novels, screenplays and stage plays, Benjamin also wrote and presented documentaries for television and radio. His poetry show Life & Rhymes won a BAFTA for 'best entertainment programme' in 2021. He was awarded 13 honorary doctorates in recognition of his work and a wing at The Ealing Hospital in West London has been named after him.
Nila Aye was born in Rangoon, Myanmar before moving to the UK at the age of three, and spent most of her childhood dreaming and drawing pictures. Nila studied graphic design at Central St Martins in London and is an award-winning illustrator, collaborating on many well-loved children's books including Nature Trail and People Need People by Benjamin Zephaniah, Book of Names by Julia Donaldson and the Who's Cute felt-flap series by Camilla Reid. Nila's greatest wish is to share the joy of beautiful visual storytelling and spark wonder in a new generation of tiny readers around the world.
