July - a snugglefest of writing and illustrating

watercolour/paper-cutting experiments

Finally, finally winter is in full force here in Canberra, and I am enjoying every frosty beanie/boot/mitten-wearing moment! Endless cups of hot tea, toasty soups, faux fur blankets . . . my feels are quite Icelandic. And of course, other than a quick dash to the shops and a brisk walk in the glorious winter sun, it's lovely to have every excuse to shut myself away in my light-filled studio, and create create create.

Speaking of beanies, can you believe how gorgeous my gumnut beanie is, below? I found it on Etsy--the store is Fibre Delights--and how could I resist? I'm hoping to wear it to my launch for Mamie--my picture book on May Gibbs, out this December. And how good would this beanie be for Book Week dress-ups?

world map giveaway

To celebrate the release of my new World Map (Hardie Grant Travel, more deets here), I have two copies to give away to a lucky travel lover--yes, you there, reading this, it could be you!

All you have to do is head to my Instagram page, follow me and tag a friend. I'll then pick a random winner on Saturday 9 June at 5pm, and the winner and their tagged friend will win a map each!

I will announce the winner over on Instagram and I'll also message the winner, so be sure to check your messages Saturday evening. Please note that maps can only be sent to Australian addresses. This comp is in no way linked to Instagram.

If you don't win, Kids' Book Review will also be giving away a map soon, too, so keep an eye on the website. Good luck!

world map - big reveal!

Okay, I cannot wait a moment longer. I just can't. Here it is--the big reveal--my illustrated world map!

Huge thanks to the lovely people at Hardie Grant Travel--what a hoot it was to travel the continents in search of imagery to delight little (and big) ones.

This map is out 1 June (just 3 days away...) and you can pre-order online now at Booktopia or at Readings (posts internationally). Otherwise, you're sure to find it Australia-wide, wherever books and maps and gifts are sold.

This map is a little smaller than the Australia map, so you may more easily find precious wall space... I'm seriously considering my ceilings, I'm out of walls.

I hope you love this creation--it was such a joy to create. Enjoy these close-up snapshots below, too, and here is the official blurb and map info.

Happy travels!