Captain Yellowbelly The Tale of the Terrible Pirate

About Preston Rutt & Leo Timmers

Ever since he first held a crayon, Preston Rutt has loved writing. He started by writing all over the brand new wallpaper (sorry mum) and took things from there. Now, some 30 years, three schools, one university and six advertising agencies, later, Preston loves writing more than ever.

Captain Yellowbelly is Preston's first children's book and was inspired by his young son Archie who, just like his dad, likes writing all over the brand new wallpaper. Preston lives in Kew with his writer wife, Mel, Archie and their six cats! none of whom are the least bit interested in writing.

Leo Timmers was born in Belgium in 1970. Up to the age of 18 he mainly drew comic strips. After studying advertising and graphic design he became a freelance illustrator and began to illustrate children's books. Gradually he also started writing stories himself.

In 2000 he received a Bookfeather award for his illustrations in 'Happy with me', which he also wrote. In 2005 and 2006 he won the annual children's and youth jury prize. His picture book 'Who is driving?' has been translated into twelve languages, with editions as far as Japan, Australia, USA, Finland, France, Germany, Denmark.

Next to children's books, Leo also does illustrations and covers for magazines and has worked on a number of advertising campaigns. In 2005 he designed a board game for Volkswagen of America which picked up 3 New England Hatch Awards. Over the years, his style has evolved but has always been marked by humour, form, colour and incisive ideas. Leo lives in Brussels with his wife Gina and two daughters Luna and Mara.