Packed with puzzles, games and festive makes, it's just right for the run-up to Christmas Sunday Express

I'm equally happy writing about Greek myths, scientific theory, cape buffalo, zombies, the Babylonians, or how to plait a pony's mane. I've just started writing fiction, too (due to be published in 2010), and I've also written a few books for adults. I worked as an editor for many years, specialising in children's non-fiction (including the Horrible Histories series) before I started writing my own books. I live in Bath with my partner and our three-year-old son. I was born and brought up in Primrose Hill in London. I studied Fine Art at Hornsey School of Art but turned to illustration on leaving. In the early years I subsidised my career with gardening and working in a cinema. Now, I am lucky enough to spend my days drawing in a studio overlooking the garden of my home in Hackney. I have illustrated books by authors such as Dick King-Smith, Linda Chapman and Herbie Brennan and worked for publishers including Puffin, Ladybird and Buster Books. Ellen grew up in Cambridge and spent her childhood making up games, putting on plays, and writing a magazine for all the children living in her street. After studying English Literature she worked as a children's book editor for a few years before moving into the charity sector. She lives with her husband and baby daughter, and is the author of a variety of bestselling activity books and annuals.