Catherine studied Illustration at Edinburgh College of Art where, for her final degree show, she created what would go on to be her debut picture book, Augustus and his Smile. The title went on to win Best New Illustrator in the Book trust Early Years Awards 2006. It was later adapted for theatre at the Royal Albert Hall.

Winner of the 2009 CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal for her second book Harris Finds His Feet, Catherine has now been shortlisted six times for the prestigious award. She has since written over 20 books for children and illustrated many more for other well-known authors including Julia Donaldson and Michael Morpurgo. Her books have been adapted for musicals, television and theatre.

Catherine was named one of Booktrust’s ten Best New Illustrators in 2008. In 2010 she was the inaugural illustrator in residence at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Other awards include the English 4-11 Award 2009 and the UKLA Children’s Book Award 2012. Solomon Crocodile was Picture Book of the Year in the Netherlands in 2014, which resulted in the book being animated and adapted for the stage. Norris, The Bear Who Shared was included in The Sunday Times 100 Children’s Modern Classics list 2014.

Catherine also exhibits her original artwork worldwide, has her own illustrated card range, and often works on other exciting and unusual collaborations. In 2021 Catherine launched her own babywear label. She loves meeting little readers and can regularly be found visiting libraries, schools and book festivals to talk about children’s literature, and to encourage and inspire children to draw, read and write.

Originally from Yorkshire, Catherine fell in love with the city of Edinburgh and still lives there with her husband and young son, and a small menagerie of animals, including the latest addition – a miniature dachshund called Otto. She has a small studio that she shares with Otto.