Why does Anne Schneider love making picture books? 'Drawing and reading have always been my main hobbies. But as a child, I had no intention of making my living with them. I wanted to be an actress! I used to write, direct and act all the time, and I was determined to go to the academy of dramatic art. But I was too young for that when I finished my secondary education, so I got the idea to attend a secondary teacher training in drawing for one year and then switch to a school of acting. But I enjoyed my studies so much that I forgot all about my original plan, finished my education, got a job as an art teacher, and started a small business in illustrations and wall paintings. In 2012, I won the Key Colours International Illustrators Award and I felt like a real picture book maker. In picture books I combine all my passions: I draw and paint, I make up stories and characters, and I direct how they get to appear. That's why I love making picture books.'