As a child, there's nothing as magical as escaping into imaginary worlds. Through thrilling quests, fantastical worlds, whimsical illustrations and extraordinary characters, bedtime stories are often the fuel for young imaginations, allowing little minds to dream big. Here, we celebrate three remarkable local artists and storytellers whose joyful works are weaving magic in the hearts and minds of children everywhere.
A Dream for Every Night
Camille Manley, an artist and muralist based in Burleigh Heads, is renowned for her vibrant works displayed on buildings throughout the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast. Her joyful and energetic style brings life to public spaces, making her art hard to miss. Beyond her murals, Camille is an accomplished illustrator of children's books, exploring themes of human interaction with our surroundings and the natural environment.
Camille's magical illustrations take children on delightful journeys where imagination intertwines with everyday life. Her whimsical and emotive work encourages children to believe in themselves and cherish their unique qualities, providing a space for young minds to dream and explore.
In the enchanting children's book A Dream for Every Night, Camille's illustrations capture the essence of bedtime magic. Her talent for merging abstract visuals with narrative elements creates a dreamscape that guides young readers into a world of wonder. This unique bedtime treasury, featuring over 160 short stories and a dream glossary, gently takes children by the hand, leading them on a journey into dreamland.
Camille's work is more than just art; it is a celebration of childhood, a time when the boundaries between the real and the imaginary are delightfully blurred. Her illustrations remind us of the importance and preciousness of children's books in nurturing young minds, encouraging them to explore, dream and believe in the extraordinary. @camillemanley_art
The Sea in Me
From multitalented athlete, musician and writer Cody Simpson comes The Sea in Me, a breathtaking story about finding calm amid the bustle of everyday life. In his new children's book, Cody promotes mindfulness and the importance of finding inner peace by quieting the world's noise and swimming underwater with nature.
The Sea in Me invites readers to dive deep and explore a world where the heartbeat slows and the only sounds are those of the sea. Cody's narrative encourages them to embrace the ocean's tranquillity, blocking out life's distractions to hear their inner voice. As a beloved Australian swimmer, Cody's lifelong connection to the sea is evident in every word. Growing up by the beach, his love for the ocean has been a constant, guiding force through his journey from a global recording artist to Broadway performer.
The book is a testament to Cody’s belief that swimming and the ocean are profound art forms, offering a serene escape and a source of inspiration. When your heart beats faster and the noises close in, it’s time to make a break for it and find the sea within. Dive deep, look, listen and feel all the creatures as they block out the distractions, allowing you to listen only to the voice inside you.
Inspired by the peace Cody has found in the ocean since he was a little boy, The Sea in Me is a story about finding calm amidst the hustle of everyday life. It’s a beautiful introduction into mindfulness, making it a perfect read for children and adults alike. @codysimpson
The Bravest Word
Kate Foster, a children's author based on the Gold Coast, captures hearts with her stunning collection of children’s books. Originally from a quaint town in southeastern England, Kate now lives with her family and beloved rescue dogs. Her writing beautifully explores themes of friendship, family dynamics, and the special bond between children and their pets, creating narratives that resonate deeply with young readers.
Amongst her works is the poignant heartfelt story, The Bravest Word, about the bond between a boy called Matty a rescue dog named Cliff who helps him find the courage to face his struggles. And Kate’s most recent work, Small Acts, co-authored with Kate Gordon, is another touching story about helping others, by beginning with one small act of kindness. Kate’s ability to weave touching and sometimes humorous moments into her narratives makes them compelling to read, while providing a powerful exploration of mental health, offering insights and fostering empathy in readers of all ages.
Beyond her storytelling, Kate is a passionate advocate for autism and mental illness awareness. Through her books and engaging presentations, she aims to promote a deeper understanding and positive representation of these issues. Kate’s talks are known for their authenticity, sensitivity and positivity. She uses interactive presentations to help children recognise and understand the invisible struggles others may face, encouraging them to be better friends and allies. By sharing her own experiences with autism and mental health, Kate works to smash harmful stereotypes, end stigmas and inspire confidence in every child she meets. @kfosterauthor
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