A rich, mostly tender fairy tale that combines elements of such children s classics as"The Secret of Roan Inish, E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial, and Born Free." . . . Combining the best of fantasy and somber reflection, The Water Horse is a lovely ride. "The Washington Post"on the film adaptation Well-written, fast-paced . . . with appealing, distinctive characters, humor, and drama. King-Smith s imaginative spin on an old myth makes the outrageous possible. "Booklist" One of the most delightful children s authors. "The Guardian"on Dick King-Smith"

Dick King-Smith was born and raised in Gloucestershire, England. After twenty years as a farmer, he turned to teaching and then to writing children s books that have received critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic. Among his well-loved novels are"Babe: The Gallant Pig, Harry s Mad, Martin s Mice, Ace: The Very Important Pig, The Robber Boy, The Invisible Dog, Three Terrible Trins, Harriet s Hare, The Stray, A Mouse Called Wolf, "and"Mr. Ape." Mr. King-Smith passed in away in 2011, but his stories live on."