“When I was young, my favorite picture book was 'Fletcher and Zenobia,' written by Edward Gorey and illustrated by Victoria Chess. It's long out of print now, but its mix of macabre humor and 1960s psychedelia made it a perfect children's book for the times.”

American novelist and educator, Rick Riordan is best known for creating the Percy Jackson series, which blends mythology with contemporary coming-of-age stories. His work has introduced generations of readers to Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology through accessible, engaging narratives.