Spark of Hope

Fiona Barker studied Psychology at university and went on to become an NHS audiologist. Later, a PhD in Clinical and Experimental Medicine allowed her to develop her interest in human communication and behaviour change. She is an advocate for living a low-waste lifestyle and reducing single-use plastic. Fiona won the Green Stories pre-school writing prize in 2020 and is the author of 10 picture books. In addition to her work as an audiologist, Fiona loves working as a writer in residence and patron of reading at two local primary schools. She recently graduated with a PGCE in Children’s Literature. Fiona lives with her husband (also a writer) in Berkshire. They share their house with Fiona's collection of dolls houses and lots and lots of yarn (for crocheting post-box toppers). They have a daughter who is all grown up now but who still loves books.Jade Van Der Zalm is an illustrator from the Netherlands. She studied Communication and Multimedia Design where she learned she loved illustrating and telling stories. Jade draws her inspiration from the shapes and colours of nature and always tries to find a way to let the illustration speak for itself. Aside from illustrating she loves to play with her two fluffy cats, take lots of pictures to use as inspiration or cook (and eat) some good food.