Alison Lester

Alison Lester was born in Foster in Victoria, Australia. She grew up on a farm overlooking the sea and first rode a horse as a baby in her father’s arms. She still lives in the country and rides her horse Woollyfoot, whenever she can. Her picture books mix imaginary worlds with everyday life, encouraging children to believe in themselves and celebrate the differences that make them special.

Alison spends part of every year traveling to schools in remote areas, using her books to help children and adults write and draw about their own lives. Alison began illustrating children’s books in her late twenties. After training as a secondary art teacher she found that although she loved teaching art, she didn't like the everyday routine of school.