NAME: J.otto Seibold LOCATION: Oakland, California J.otto Seibold is a first-generation American, born to a German father and Romanian mother in Oakland, California. He was raised in Martinez and was a self-described 'F+ student.' Before becoming a celebrated children's book illustrator and writer, he worked as a drafter, an architectural designer, and a freelance editorial illustrator. He is the author and illustrator of Olive the Other Reindeer, Seamore, the Very Forgetful Porpoise, Penguin Dreams, and The Pig and the Spigot, among others. His most recent book is Vunce Upon a Time (Chronicle Books). 'With each book I strive to make something that is the best I can do at the time,' Seibold has said. 'And each of the books has small messages-about borrowing, about being true to your nature.' He lives in Oakland, California.