Hello! I’m Robbie Cathro, an Illustrator & Storyteller living in Bristol, UK, working from my studio in The Island. I love to make fun, colourful and charismatic work for children’s picture books, kids mags, editorial and advertising. With my work I hope to create a playful composition that translates the mood and atmosphere of the work I'm illustrating! I graduated in 2016 from The University of the West of England with a 1st-Class Honours in (BA Hons) Illustration.

My debut picture book ‘Be Your Own Man’, published by FIVE MILE BOOKS, is a book for boys and those who identify as a boy, encourages boys and men to embrace their vulnerability and put their hand up for help. Normalising ‘softer’ behaviours such sensitivity, creativity and caring for others as valuable human traits. It encourages its’ readers to broaden their ideas about what it means to be a boy and supports them to feel proud about who they truly are! ‘Be Your Own Man’ is out now in Australia, Germany, Poland, Spain, Japan & the UK!

‘Two Grooms on a Cake’, published by Little Bee Books, is a kids book telling the story of America’s first legal same-sex marriage written by Rob Sanders, released Summer 2021.

‘Everyday STEM: Physics’ and ‘Everyday STEM: Geology’ explore these STEM subjects through comics, at-home activites and colourful and informative spreads! Published by Kingfisher in Autumn 2021.

‘Lift the Flap: THE BRAIN’ released in 2023 with RONSHIN Books, and explore all the hidden wonders of the brain through 72 flaps! Working your way through a big brain museum, lift the flaps throughout and learn something new and find some fun, colourful artwork!

‘Around the World in 80 Inventions’, released October 12, 2023 from Templar Publishing, uncovers the fascinating, real stories behind 80 incredible inventions that have expanded humankind’s knowledge and shaped our lives today. Written by Matt Ralphs. Available in English, Korean, French, Greek, Italian, Spanish.

‘Free To Be Fabulous’, coming April 2024 from Harper Collins, tells the story of little Daniel who finds his inner confidence through dance and music. Written by David McMullin.

‘The Hidden Heroes of Science’, published by DK Books in 2025, tells the story of lesser known scientists that have wonderful discoveries of their own! Written by Peter Gallivan, get ready to meet some of the hidden heroes that contributed to the world’s most important scientific discoveries.

‘The Danger Files’, released October 8 2025, tells the stories of dangerous and life changing moments throughout history through the eyes of those there on the ground. Fires! Floods! Explosions! Explore how these disasters happened and what caused them to happen in the first place. Published by Candlewick Press, written by Anna Crowley Redding, and PART 1 of an upcoming trilogy!

As well as my career as an Illustrator, I also work for hire as a guest lecturer at university level when required. I’ve had 5+ years experience with the UWE Illustration (BA Hons) course delivering workshops, providing one-on-one student tutorials and marking for assessment. I have also provided guest talks for Arts University Bournemouth and Nottingham Trent University.

Currently self-represented. If you would like to say hello or get in touch regarding comissions, university/college guest lecturing or workshop possibilities drop a message to:

Email: robbiecathroillustration@gmail.com /or send a message through my contact page.

Client List:

Phone : +(44) 787102811