Dreaming of becoming a cartoonist, Alan J. Garner realised his early ambition drawing a cartoon strip about the ups and downs of a cheeky magpie published daily in a local newspaper. Dissatisfaction with his artistic achievement led him, at the urging of his wife, to attempt writing his first novel. Originally a fan of old style science fiction, Alan quickly embraced fantasy. Bringing his wicked sense of humour to the project produced The Chosen One and the abandonment of the sketched line in favour of the written line. Again that feeling of discontent crept into his work and he decided to combine the best of both worlds, blending magic with a pinch of machinery and a generous dollop of wit, in the process terming himself a science fantasy humourist. But Alan has not entirely forsaken his drawing roots and periodically designs covers for his books. However, the pen remains mightier than the paintbrush and he prefers the medium of writing, penning further novels, a succession of darker short stories, a fantastical children's series based loosely on his childhood, and a handful of adventure picture books designed to put the fun back into reading for kids. Some are published, others waiting in the wings to take flight. Finding that his writing rudely intrudes on his full-time work as a painter/decorator in Auckland, New Zealand, Alan shares what time he has spare with his significant other half, Michelle, and their seven cats, proudly bringing a uniquely Kiwi flavour to his writing.