Richard Schlatter studied architecture, art, and design at the University of Cincinnati, and graphic design and photography at the Ray-Vogue schools in Chicago. After a three-year stint working for a Chicago art studio, he moved to Michigan and became the art director of an advertising agency in Battle Creek. He formed Schlatter Design in 1972, a full-service design firm, and still works as an independent advertising/graphic design consultant. His first children's book, The Old Man and The Tree, is a true story. The author recalls, "After cutting down a large maple tree near my house, I felt depressed and knew I made a mistake. I wanted my tree back, but it was too late. When I shared the experience with my six-year-old granddaughter, she inspired me to write the story and get it published." Richard lives in Battle Creek with his wife, Linda, and their two rescue cats.
