Herman the Helper about an octopus that is always willing to assist anyone who needs his help. Old or young, friend or enemy, Herman the octopus is here to provide aid to those in need—no matter who they are. Herman the Helper is ready to guide kids on a path of empathy and compassion. Robert Kraus, New Yorker cartoonist and cover artist, created numerous classic picture books for very young children, including Leo the Late Bloomer and Milton the Early Riser. Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey have illustrated many books together—he draws the outlines and designs the pages; she paints the illustrations. Aruego, a native of the Philippines, was a lawyer before becoming an illustrator, and now lives in New York City. Dewey was born in Chicago and also lives in New York City. Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey have illustrated many books together—he draws the outlines and designs the pages; she paints the illustrations. Aruego, a native of the Philippines, was a lawyer before becoming an illustrator, and now lives in New York City. Dewey was born in Chicago and also lives in New York City.