SJS Author

My Story

I first discovered my love of writing in high school. Back then, my notebooks were filled with story ideas, character sketches, and the beginnings of novels that, despite my best intentions, were never quite finished. Writing remained a passion, but life had a way of keeping it on the sidelines.

Everything changed when I became pregnant with my daughter. As I prepared to welcome her into the world, I knew I wanted to pursue this dream of becoming an author. New ideas began to take shape, and for the first time, the stories felt complete. Many evenings were spent writing late at night after work or once my daughter had fallen asleep, turning those quiet hours into opportunities to bring my characters and adventures to life.

Author Bio

I am a New Zealand author of children’s picture books and young adult fantasy. My debut picture book, Lucy Lost Her Spots (2024), was inspired by Lucy, my mother-in-law’s much-loved Dalmatian, and began a writing journey fuelled by a love of animals, family, mythology and imagination. I have also published Where’s Teddy (2024) and Tammy Tractor Saves the Day (2025).

Before discovering my passion for storytelling, I was planning a career in medicine and competed as a professional triathlete during my university years. Alas, this was not my calling and i never found true passion in those fields. Today, I work in my family’s beekeeping business, am a full-time mother and wife, and write and create after the rest of the household has gone to bed.

My stories explore friendship, belonging, resilience and adventure, from the warmth and humour of her picture books to the imaginative worlds of her fantasy fiction. When I’m not writing, you’ll oftenfind walking or running through the forest, experimenting in the kitchen, baking sourdough, or spending time with my family, friends and two much-loved Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Why Storytelling Matters to Me

Storytelling has always been an important part of human history. Long before books, people shared stories to pass on knowledge, values, and memories from one generation to the next.

For me, storytelling is also an important part of parenting. Some of the most meaningful moments happen when you’re curled up together in a comfortable chair, sharing an adventure through the pages of a book. Stories create opportunities to laugh, learn, imagine, and connect with the people we love most.

My hope is that every book I write brings families together, sparks a child’s imagination, and creates memories that will be treasured for years to come.

” Seeing not only my own children but others interact, get excited, and learn to read from my books is what makes this all worth while.”