Nat Iwata has worked as an art director, 3D artist, illustrator, professor, and animator on everything from video games to children’s books. His debut picture book, Sumo Joe, was called “a refreshing new take on the martial arts genre” by Kirkus Reviews. Like Wat, Nat is also Japanese American, about 5′ 7″ tall, but lousy at basketball. He lives in Washington state with his wife and three boys, all of whom serve as an endless source of encouragement and inspiration. You can visit him online at iwataillustration.com.