As a child I was always ‘that kid’ who just scraped in to finish their creative writing and artwork. That wasn’t because I didn’t like it — oh no, I had too much story and imagery in my head and never enough time to get it all on paper!

My childhood was one of the best periods of my life. It was full of love, adventure, curiosity, play and enjoying nature. The warmth and guidance of my parents and the friendship of my siblings was always present, whether as a sail to propel me forwards, a parachute to help me land gently, or a blanket to be wrapped in and open the gateway for whimsical dreaming. These were the foundations of my journey into adulthood and what I endeavour to convey, for kids to feel and older generations to remember.