Helen Bate studied architecture and spent ten years working as an architect. Following a career change she went on to obtain a 1st Class degree and MA degree in Children's Illustration. By 2014 she was the winner of the People's Book Prize, Best Achievement Award, for her innovative work with Pictures to Share C.I.C, a Social Enterprise publishing illustrated books for people with dementia. Her first picture book, ABC UK, with James Dunn, was nominated for the Kate Greenway Medal. She is the author and illlustrator of Me and Mrs Moon, a graphic novel exploring dementia and The Creature, a picture storybook, both published by Otter-Barry Books. Helen lives in Shropshire.