Martin Waddell

Martin Waddell (born 10 April 1941) is an Irish writer of children's books. He may be known best for the texts of picture books that feature anthropomorphic animals, especially the Little Bear series, illustrated by Barbara Firth, and Owl Babies , illustrated by Patrick Bensen. He also writes under the pen name Catherine Sefton for older children, primarily ghost stories and mystery fiction. Otley was his debut. After completing the series he never returned to the genre. For his "lasting...See more

Martin Waddell (born 10 April 1941) is an Irish writer of children's books. He may be known best for the texts of picture books that feature anthropomorphic animals, especially the Little Bear series, illustrated by Barbara Firth, and Owl Babies , illustrated by Patrick Bensen. He also writes under the pen name Catherine Sefton for older children, primarily ghost stories and mystery fiction. Otley was his debut. After completing the series he never returned to the genre. For his "lasting contribution" as a children's writer Waddell received the Hans Christian Andersen Medal in 2004. See less