Date: 2013-08-06
Rod Campbell was born in Scotland in 1945. His family moved to Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) when he was two years old. Despite his artistic talents, he had a scientific higher education and subsequently went to Britain where he obtained a doctorate in organic chemistry. Soon after, he gave up science to follow his interests in art. Since then he has created a number of hugely successful and innovative books for children, the best known being Dear Zoo. In 1987 he founded his own incredibly successful publishing company, Campbell Books, which was bought by Macmillan in 1995.
Rod Campbell's approach to books for babies and toddlers is instinctive, with simplicity being paramount. He sees himself as a 'maker' of books rather than as an author or illustrator. He believes that however simple a story, it should always end either on an upbeat note or quietly resolved to everyone's satisfaction!
Rod Campbell is the creator of many brilliant novelty books for babies and toddlers including ABC Zoo, Farm Babies, Farm Chase, Farm 123 and Noisy Farm as well as Dear Zoo, regarded as a classic.
