Andrew Cope

Andrew (most people call him Andy) was born in the same year that England won the world cup. He's Derby born and bred and is an avid follower of Derby County Football Club. Andy never actually set out to be a writer - he wasn't even particularly good at English at school. But he's a trier. And he loves learning.

Andy's writing caters for all ages. His writing began at the grand old age of 36 when his family adopted a mangy mutt from the RSPCA. Lara settled in to family life but Andy was astounded at her lack of intelligence. No tricks. No talent. Nothing! So he had a madcap idea that maybe she was just pretending to be stupid. Maybe she was a secret agent dog, under cover in his house, assuming the identity of a family pet. And 'Spy Dog' was born. Published by Puffin, the 'Spy Dog' and 'Spy Pups' books are now available all over the world. He has recently added 'Spy Cat' to the repertoire. Continuing the animal theme, Andy has also written the 'Raccoon Rampage' series for Harper Collins. His 'Spy Dog' website is www.spydog451.co.uk

Andy's real passion lies in a subject called 'Positive Psychology' which is, basically, the science of happiness and well-being. He's written 'The Art of Being Brilliant' and 'Being Brilliant Everyday' which are self-help books for grown-ups, and 'The Art of Being a Brilliant Teenager' the UK's first positive psychology books for teenagers. Andy's also co-authored 'The Art of Being a Brilliant Teacher'. To find out more about his work in this area, visit www.artofbrilliance.co.uk

Andy lives with his wife, children, 2 pet dogs, 2 pet pigs and a various assortment of guinea pigs, hamsters and fish. His ambition is to be able to surf, brilliantly!