Heidi McKinnon

Author, Entertainment, Illustrator, Inspirational Speaker, Storyteller/Performer

Heidi is passionate about sharing her love of story, art and creativity with children and young people.

Where were you born?

I was born and grew up in Tamworth – a regional town in NSW best known for country music and a large golden guitar. 

What other jobs have you had?

When I was at university I had many different jobs – I worked in a café, bookshop, art store and computer shop. The funniest job I had was being a photographer for theatre restaurants! After I graduated I worked as a graphic designer which took me in many different directions – one of them being children’s books!

What themes are recurring in your work?

Funny goofy-looking characters feature highly in my books. I also love silly words like ‘Blurrrrrk!’ ‘Meep! Meep!’ and ‘Screepy Screep Screep’ – mostly because they are fun words to say! 

Friendship, courage and humour are also reoccurring themes in my stories.

What have been the highlights of your career?

There’s been so many wonderful highlights in my career so far – but seeing a drawing of a character from one of my books is the absolute BEST thing ever.

Where have your works been published?

Australia, North America, UK, Korea, Japan, China, France & Germany.

What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about making lough out loud books that are engaging and inspiring so that children want to read them again and again.

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

My favourite word is KERFUFFLE! + I do not like balloons (also known as globophobia).