Sven Nordqvist was born in Helsingborg, Sweden. Although he studied architecture, he always wanted to be an illustrator and found work illustrating advertisements, posters, and textbooks. In 1983 he won first prize in a children's book competition and since then has worked as an author and illustrator of children's books. He is a renowned children's book illustrator and writer in Sweden and across Europe. When he's not illustrating books for children, he spends time building playgrounds, children's play areas at hospitals, and decorations for schools. Carpentry has always been an important part of Nordqvist's life--often reflected in the actions of his industrious character Pettson--with the central goal being the enrichment of children's lives. The beloved Pettson and Findus stories draw, in part, on Nordqvist's loving observations of his two sons when they were younger. His unique illustrations are inspired by the delights of everyday life.