Since 1966, Mercer Mayer has published more than 300 books, most of which are about his own childhood. They capture with humorous honesty what it's really like to be a kid. He and his wife, Gina, live in New England and write the popular Little Critter stories together before he illustrates them. In 2007, Mr. Mayer was commissioned by Laura Bush to create the artwork used for the National Book Festival held on September 29 on the National Mall. He was an honored guest at the event, autographing hundreds of books for fans who attended as well as playing his ukulele.