Billie B Brown Collection 2
Izilinganiso nezibuyekezo
Mayelana nomlobi
Sally Rippin is Australia’s highest-selling female author and has written over 100 books for children and young adults, many of them award-winning. Her widely popular books are beloved across the globe, and have sold more than 10 million copies in eighteen countries. Best known for her Billie B Brown and Hey Jack! series, Sally loves to write stories with heart and characters that resonate with children, parents and teachers alike. Her Polly and Buster series is beloved by primary-school readers, while her most recent series, School of Monsters, is ideal for kids who are learning to read. In 2024, Sally was named the eighth Australian Children’s Laureate. The Children’s Laureate is the national ambassador for reading and Australian children’s literature. They speak on behalf of all creators and for the entire industry representing reading advocates, educators, librarians, booksellers and publishers. Appointed every two years to promote the importance and transformational power of reading, creativity and story in the lives of young Australians, the Children’s Laureate spends extensive time speaking directly with children, education specialists, government ministers and librarians, in both metropolitan and regional communities across the country. Every Laureate has a mission for their two-year term. For Sally, it is: ‘All kids can be readers’. Through this she will work towards creating public awareness around learning difficulties as well as the most effective practice in teaching children to read. Sally will put a spotlight on reading challenges faced by millions of Australian children – including but not limited to discussions around neurodiversity, disability, mental health, access to books and language barriers. Currently, as well as working on new books and her Laureate duties, Sally is working with an Australian production house to adapt her work for screen.
Aki Fukuoka always tries to find the magic around her. Born in Japan, Aki moved to Auckland at eight, where she has lived ever since. Aki graduated from the Elam School of Fine Arts and has illustrated over 80 books, including award winning children's picture books, chapter books and educational itles. Her work has also featured in magazines, t-shirt designs, stationary, posters and murals.