Kes Gray author page

Kes Gray biography

Kes Gray (born 1960) is a British children’s author celebrated for his humorous and engaging picture books and early readers. His works are noted for their playful language, inventive rhymes, and memorable characters, appealing to a broad young audience.

Born in Chelmsford, Essex, Gray attended Great Baddow Comprehensive School before studying English and American Literature at the University of Kent. He began his professional life in advertising, where he honed his skills in creative writing and storytelling.

Gray’s debut picture book, Eat Your Peas, illustrated by Nick Sharratt, was published in 2000 and won the Red House Children’s Book Award in 2001. This success led to the creation of the Daisy series, featuring a spirited young girl navigating everyday adventures. The series, illustrated by Sharratt and Garry Parsons, has become a staple in children’s literature.

In 2014, Gray launched the Oi Frog! series with illustrator Jim Field. The books’ clever rhymes and humorous scenarios have garnered widespread acclaim, leading to adaptations for stage and audio, with actor David Mitchell providing narration. The series has sold over 1.5 million copies and won several awards, including the Laugh Out Loud Book Award in 2017 for Oi Dog!.

Beyond these series, Gray has authored numerous other titles, such as How Many Legs?, Quick Quack Quentin, and You’re Called What?!, often collaborating with illustrators like Jim Field and Fred Blunt. His works frequently feature in educational settings, supporting literacy and phonics learning.

Gray’s contributions to children’s literature have been recognised with multiple accolades, including the Sainsbury’s Children’s Book Award and listings among the UK’s top children’s authors.