"Here is a fascinating insight into the work of the Children's Laureate in his own words and pictures. The words describe his approach to the challenges and opportunities of illustration; the pictures, chosen from fifty years of publication, show the progress from his first experience of Punch magazine to the most recent picture book, Fantastic Daisy Artichoke. Some are familiar, such as those of Roald Dahl's Matilda or the BFG, while others are from books and magazines which appeared early in his career; and there are some - roughs, layouts and personal drawings - which have never before been published. There are glimpses too inside his studio, providing an insight into how his ideas and thoughts came together. This unusual book is not only an opportunity to examine the artistic development of one of our most distinguished illustrators, it is also a guide for those seeking to enter the world of illustration and required reading for all people interested in children's books, humour, or quite simply the pleasures of drawing. " -- BOOK JACKET.