Mauri Kunnas (born 1950) is undoubtedly Finland's most successful author of children's books. To date, way over forty books of his have been published, in thirty-five languages in thirty-six countries - including Finnish and Finland -, for a total of almost 9 million copies. His books for children have aroused enormous interest around the world. The best-known internationally is Santa Claus. It has already been translated into twenty-six languages. His books for adults include The Canine Kalevala and Beatles with an A. He has an unrivalled gift for taking history and casting it in a new and hilarious way, as well as for giving old stories and legends his own delightful twist. And his books always exude an atmosphere which is contagiously warm and happy. Mauri Kunnas's first picture book was published in 1975, marking the start of his spectacular career. In his spare time, Mauri Kunnas enjoys the Beatles, playing the guitar, films and history - as well as watching thunderstorms.