Jules Gabriel Verne (1828 - 1905) was a French writer who pioneered the science fiction genre. Notable amongst his works are "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea", "Around the World in 80 Days" and "A Journey to the Centre of the Earth".

STEPHEN LILLIE is a London-based illustrator, photographer and cartoonist with more than twenty years' experience, specializing in character development and social commentary.

TONY EVANS started his career as a high school English teacher, and has a Masters Degree in Literary Research from Lancaster University. After working as a Deputy Headteacher in Bristol he became a school inspector and educational consultant, based in Leeds. He is now a full-time writer and lives with his wife in the Yorkshire Dales. Tony has a particular interest in Victorian literature and culture. His publications include a collection of detective stories set in late nineteenth century England, as well as co-authorship of a book on steam locomotives and several books in the Real Reads series of re-told classics.