Author:
Jodi Haywood is a mother, author, paediatric Occupational Therapist, nature-lover, and proud owner of a delightfully neurospicy brain. By day, Jodi runs Lotus Therapy, a paediatric allied health practice in Gympie, where she supports children and families and reads a lot of children’s books, the best ones with heart, honesty, and a little bit of dirt under the nails. By night (and often with a cup of tea in the garden), she dreams up stories that support neurodivergent children feel safe, celebrated, and truly seen. Jodi’s stories are deeply inspired by her children, her clients, and her own journey of self-discovery. As a neurodivergent mother and therapist, she brings a neuroaffirming lens to every page, celebrating the beauty of different minds, bodies, and ways of being. Her love of nature, community, and connection shines through in every heartfelt book — creating stories that are gentle, grounding, and full of wonder.
Illustrator:
Diana Maksymenko, is a Ukrainian-born illustrator with a background in architecture and city planning. After moving to sunny Los Angeles, she traded blueprints for sketchbooks, following her heart into the colorful world of children’s books. Her work is known for its joyful, expressive style and ability to capture the wonder, warmth, and imagination of childhood. Drawing inspiration from her architectural roots, Diana brings structure and storytelling together — crafting worlds where creativity and curiosity shine through every page. Her illustrations have appeared in children’s books, magazines, and publications around the globe, delighting readers with a blend of whimsy, emotion, and thoughtful design. When she’s not sketching, Diana can often be found exploring the city with her sketchbook in hand, dreaming up new adventures to bring to life.
