ABOUT ANNIE

Annie illustrates and writes for children from her studio in Melbourne, Australia.

After studying art and design, she was in the advertising industry for a while and now works with different publishers and other interested people creating books.

Annie has illustrated over 80 books for children and written 3 of them. She likes to communicate her ideas clearly and simply using expression and movement. Some of her picture books have appeared on the CBCA Notables list, the Speech Pathology short list and the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards short list.

Annie likes The Magic Faraway Tree, Alice in Wonderland and books by A. A. Milne. When asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, she listed artist, princess or archaeologist (so she could find Atlantis).

ABOUT CLEMENTINE’S TREASURE

Clementine, the mischievous dog from Clementine’s Walk and Clementine’s Bath, is back in a new adventure – Clementine’s Treasure.

When the Queen comes to tea, Clementine has her eye on only one thing – a sparkly royal necklace! But what happens when the jewel goes missing?

Daisy, Annie’s second studio dog, inspired the story of Clementine’s Treasure., when she swiped a delicate gold necklace from around the neck of the very glamorous niece as she bent to pat the adorable new puppy. No one noticed the theft for a while as they tucked into a delicious morning tea, but then a frantic search began . . .

THE HARDEST THING ABOUT WRITING AND ILLUSTRATING CLEMENTINE’S TREASURE

Sometimes, even after lots of attempts, the words and images refuse to behave. Then it’s time to head off on a walk with Daisy. Somehow, the rhythm of walking helps to unravel the problems.

THE MOST FUN THING ABOUT WRITING THIS BOOK

I had fun writing this story as it was based on such an unusual event. Though the characters already existed, I enjoyed making them larger than life and exaggerating their personalities (note: unlike the Queen, my niece rarely gets in a huff). Capturing the range of expressions and balancing just the right amount of words with just the right amount of illustration was one of my favourite parts of creating Clementine’s Treasure.. I also had fun making a book trailer.

ILLUSTRATION PROMPT

Clementine is attracted to anything that sparkles!

Draw her a treasure chest of glittery jewels, necklaces, gold coins and crowns.

WRITING PROMPT

Clementine was longing to feast on the Queen’s morning tea.

Describe a banquet of all your favourite food. Remember to use all your 5 senses as you write the details.