Vivian was first published in 1990, a natural progression for somebody who had enjoyed careers in the theatre, counselling and storytelling. Since then she has established an enviable reputation as a writer of integrity and imagination, a writer illustrators love to work with, and a writer her readers want to meet.

Vivian writes stories for picture books, fiction and non-fiction, poetry and plays. She loves the challenge of making up stories and explaining real things – from frogs, to chocolate, to worms to dinosaurs. She collaborates with many different illustrators from all over the world, enjoys working with editors, and loves meeting her readers in schools and libraries and at festivals all over the world.

She also knows a great deal about illustrators and illustration and is the co-founder of the acclaimed Picture Hooks mentoring scheme. She teaches illustration to students at the Edinburgh College of Art and is a sought-after lecturer on the importance of picture books.

And recently we’ve seen some original Vivian French illustrations peppering her Instagram account – so just watch that space!