The author of The McTavish Girls is Simon Alisby who has lived in Maidstone for nearly thirty years. As well as writing the four books that make up the McTavish Girls series, he participated in sporting activities up to his mid-forties with the consequence that he has subsequently gained considerable expertise in the field of back pain and its various treatments. Sport is now restricted to a few exercises and swimming, the latter achieved with the help of lessons undertaken after turning fifty. Other interests include membership of the local art society and gardening.