<p Celebrated for her work as author/illustrator of the popular book series and TV show, <em Elliot Moose</em , Beck was delighted to launch <em Pierre Le Poof!</em . Andrea is known for creating earnest characters that inhabit a world of warmth and friendship, appealing to children and parents alike. Her irrepressible Pierre was inspired by the glimpse of an overly coiffed poodle at a dog show. Beck melded that mutt with the characteristics of her beagle Toby -- the family darling and master escape artist—and Pierre Le Poof was born. <br <br Beck draws upon her childhood memories to create stories that speak deeply to children. Her first characters were rooted in… her years as a toymaker and in a childhood in which toys seemed truly alive. <br <br Beck studied at OCAD, York University and the University of Toronto and began her career as a toy designer. Her award-winning designs were featured in Canadian media and sold from coast to coast. Later, reading to her children, Beck was inspired by picturebooks and she began to write. <br <br Beck lives in Unionville, ON, with her two sons, her beagle Tillie and about 30 goldfish in the backyard pond</p <p </p