Teko Bernard grew up in the Midwest on a 5-acre parcel of wide-open land in the countryside, where he spent his days wandering, playing, and discovering things outdoors. Building forts, working on bikes, and other inventive projects with his brothers in their Grandpa's workshop just behind their bustling home, a central hub for a parade of visiting extended family members and friends. ​This childhood experience, combined with Teko's lifelong love for nature, and becoming taken by beaver's inspiring behaviors, unique engineering abilities, and great ecological importance, ultimately inspired Teko to write his latest book, "Bronson Beaver Builds a Robot". ​ Teko writes middle-grade chapter books for boys and girls ages 7-12. He is the author of Bernard Jones Is Going Places, Elite Squad, and The Hoop Kid From Elmdale Park. Before pursuing his dream to write for young readers, Teko started his professional life as a graphic designer. During his 20+ year career, he had the opportunity to design graphics for well-known brands like ESPN, Summer X Games, Winter X Games, NCAA, BASSMASTER, and U.S. National Parks to name a few.