Hello — I’m Andrew Baylis, a picture‑book author and illustrator based in the UK. I create colourful, character‑driven stories full of humour, warmth, and a touch of the unexpected. My work blends expressive characters with playful visual storytelling, and I love building worlds that feel alive, surprising, and slightly mischievous.
I write and illustrate my own stories, including Captain Bananas and the Rainy Day, Lots to Find in a Fisherman’s Beard, Would a Woodpecker Peck?, and Too Many Bears in the Bed. I’m always developing new ideas, and I’m happiest when I’m sketching characters, exploring rhythms in language, or finding the comedy in everyday moments.
Before focusing on children’s books, I worked in creative and production roles, which taught me the value of clarity, collaboration, and delivering work to a high standard. Those habits now shape my approach to picture‑book making; thoughtful, organised, and always open to feedback.
When I’m not drawing, you’ll usually find me reading picture books, walking in the countryside, or inventing new characters in the margins of my sketchbook.
I’m currently seeking literary and illustration representation.
If you’d like to get in touch, you can reach me at: andybaylis@aol.com
1. Reading Too Many Bears in the Bed during a library story time session.
2. In the studio Sketching new characters and developing picture‑book ideas.
3. Library event Celebrating Too Many Bears in the Bed at my local library.