Sir Michael Andrew Bridge Morpurgo, known for his magical storytelling, is an acclaimed British author whose work primarily focuses on children's literature. Morpurgo was born on October 5, 1943. He has created a remarkable legacy with novels such as War Horse, celebrated for vivid settings like the Cornish coast or the tumultuous periods of World War I, and themes emphasizing the triumph of an outsider, survival, and deep connections with nature.

Morpurgo's career is adorned with notable achievements, including serving as the third Children's Laureate from 2003 to 2005 and holding the prestigious position of President of BookTrust, the UK's largest children's reading charity. His contributions to literature and the arts have been recognized with numerous awards, such as the Whitbread Award in 1995, the Prix Sorcières in 2001, and the Hampshire Book Award in 2005. Beyond his literary pursuits, Morpurgo has also made significant contributions as a poet, playwright, and librettist.

His life story includes early years spent in St Albans, Hertfordshire, evacuation to Cumberland during the last years of the Second World War, and a return to London before settling in Essex. After a brief stint in the army, Morpurgo chose teaching, a decision that paved the way for his writing career. He later left teaching to set up 'Farms for City Children' with his wife, a charity offering city children the opportunity to work with animals on farms in Devon, Wales, and Gloucestershire, a testament to his commitment to children's welfare and education.