Dutch author Rik Peters wants his stories to be a place of safety. No matter who you are or what's going on in the outside world, his books offer a space that's open to everyone. Rik fills his stories with remarkable characters and unpredictable situations; there's always something unusual going on. But readers know that they're secure and welcome, even if it's just for the duration of a story.

Belgian illustrator Federico Van Lunter always tries to surround himself with things that make him smile and people that he loves. This constant quest for joy and happiness also shines through in his illustrations. Whether it's in bright colors or dark details, in still lines or lively typography, Federico hopes his work encourages people to open up to experiences, to others, and to themselves because there's beauty everywhere.