Chris Kennett

Where were you born?

I was born in medieval city of Canterbury, England. Although not during medieval times. I’m not THAT old!

What other jobs have you had?

My first job out of school was as a Reprographics Officer for Canterbury City Council (That’s a glorified photocopier in case you were wondering). And yes it was as boring as it sounds.

After moving to Australia in 1998 I started out drawing caricature commissions, before moving into the world on online animated greeting cards. This lead to career in the animation industry, where I’ve worked on a number of productions as both animator and, more recently, character designer.

What themes are recurring in your work?

A lot of my work involves high energy posing , big expressive characters and bold vibrant colours. I also like to include as much humour in my work, even when there seemingly is none.

What have been the highlights of your career?

Definitely my creative partnership with the incredible and legendary Sally Rippin. Watching the success of The School of Monsters and seeing it grow into a 30 book series and animated series is a dream come true!

Also having the great privilege to work on a series of Star Wars books and to have my name forever linked to my all time favourite franchise, is AMAZING!

Where have your works been published?

Outside of Australia and New Zealand my books have enjoyed great success in the US and Canada. As well as China, South Korea, Mexico, Brazil, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Slovenia, Iran and Ukraine.

And possibly more on the way!

What are you passionate about?

My family, collecting records and drawing of course!

I love using illustration and characters to tell stories. And now I’m able to work on the kinds of books that I would have loved to read myself growing up.

Haven't I seen you before?

Maybe? You might have seen me online, or heard my voice on a variety of book related podcasts.
You might have seen me take part in the 2023 Australian Reading Hour event “The Magic of Storytelling” with a host of Australian Kid Lit superstars! In fact, you can watch it right here!
Or you might have caught me and Mr Luke launch the national Family Reading Challenge in May 2025



And if you live in Bendigo, you might have seen me buying groceries.

Anything else you'd like to share with us?

I love listening to music, building Lego and collecting old comic annuals from the 1980s.

Click below to watch a trailer of Chris' Virtual Visits