Nicole shines a light on environmental and animal rights issues through captivating picture books that engage readers and help to create a generation of thoughtful, committed and compassionate individuals.

With topics ranging from a jellyfish falling in love with a plastic bag (Jelly-Boy) to ocean conservation (Billie) and elephants being used to entertain tourists (Ella), Nicole’s books are striking a cord with children, families and teachers.

Susannah Crispe is a Canberra-based wildlife illustrator, inspired by a background in zoology and art history, and a love of beautifully crafted books. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Art History from the University of Sydney (2008) and studied Zoology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of New England.

Wildlife and travel are big parts of Susannah’s life. She has worked as a volunteer research assistant with several organisations in Australia, including working with wild Tasmanian Devils, Quolls and Bettongs, and volunteered at the National Zoo and Aquarium working with native Australian animals. She has also travelled extensively, including to Chile, where she was lucky enough to visit a Magellanic Penguin colony.

In terms of illustration, Susannah is largely self-taught, and works primarily in watercolour and digital collage. She has been illustrating professionally for four years for a range of clients, producing a large selection of greeting cards, logo designs and wildlife artworks. Susannah is also a stay-at-home-mum, where reading books with the kids forms a huge part of her everyday routine. Where the Heart Is is her first book.