Since I was a young girl…
I loved to use my imagination to create stories and illustrations. Back then I did it to entertain and inspire my younger brothers. I’d read them my stories to sleep on an almost nightly basis. I loved how it felt to see them smile and react to my stories and I knew one day I would want to share this gift with the world.
Growing up in the English countryside as an autistic girl, I found solace alone in my room reading my favorite books. Being the quirky, geeky, cardigan-wearing, mixed-race girl I was led me to become the primary target of a gang of bullies who victimized, harassed, and abused me for years daily throughout secondary school from the time I arrived at school through to my long walk back home. I ate my lunch alone every day in the library bathroom stall to avoid being beaten up, spat on, or called horrible names.
Having spent so much time in the library to avoid my bullies, I learned about many competitions set by the librarians and school where I had more opportunities to hone my talents in art and storytelling. I participated in every single competition I saw. The majority of the time, I won. Other times, I was placed as a finalist. These experiences were like a balm to my shattered self-esteem from the constant bullying and gave me a sense of purpose and direction in my life.
I attended the University of Wales Trinity Saint David to get as far away from my town as possible to experience a fresh start. I pursued a Bachelor’s in Arts for Graphic Communication. I received my Post-Graduate Certificate of Education from Plymouth Marjon University and became a secondary school teacher. Still, my heart was called to return to illustrating and storytelling. So, I resigned from teaching and pursued my passion. Shortly afterward, I illustrated my first children’s book as a professional: Bedtime Stories, published by Miles Kelly.
Fast forward to today…
I’ve had the honour to work with some of the greatest and most legendary publishers worldwide, illustrating and writing over 70 books to inspire the bright minds of our newest generation. Like my early days in the secondary school library winning art and writing competitions, some of the books I’ve had the privilege to work on have won awards internationally.
My books have been read by people from all walks of life, from the Duchess of York to TikTokers and YouTubers to loving mums and dads to their dear children. What brings me the greatest joy is knowing the characters I’ve created have brought joy to others.
These days, I’ve been focused on creating stories centered around themes to inspire our youth to recognize the importance of playing their role in combating the climate crisis our planet Earth presently faces. Having a deep love for animals and our beautiful natural environment, I want to use my gifts to inspire change in how I believe I can best.
I’ve also been helping thought leaders, celebrities, musicians, actors, entrepreneurs, and mums and dads create their own children’s books with their unique characters, stories, and lessons. I find it incredibly fulfilling to help bring someone’s dream into reality.
Last but not least, as society has become more aware of neurodivergent people, like me, I’ve been creating characters and stories that show that being neurodivergent is a gift, even a superpower. I can’t wait to show the world these new stories I’ve been cultivating!