Joy Cowley is one of New Zealand’s best-loved writers for children and adults, with an international reputation.

She has won a multitude of awards and honours for her bestselling books, including the Prime Ministers Award for contribution to literature. She was shortlisted for the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2018.

Janine Dawson initially worked in animation for a number of years before being lucky enough to discover the joy of children’s book illustration. Since then, she has been terribly busy illustrating a vast range of picture books and chapter books for trade and educational publishers. Working with inks and watercolour Janine loves observing the everyday nuances that make people and animals who they are.

Placing a strong focus on character she regularly draws inspiration from everyday life. She loves to notice things from a different perspective and bring that world to the page. Cats, dogs and small children are among her favourites and Janine has often been praised for the warmth and charm she portrays them with.

When she’s not illustrating books, Janine is busy painting watercolours, making zines, working on her comic, swimming and walking, all totally unplugged from any device so as not to miss out on the natural soundtrack of life. Janine currently lives in Sydney's Northern Beaches with her cat Bertie, who likes to help with office work, especially shredding.