Sami Bayly

Author, Illustrator

Sami loves to capture her audiences with weird and wonderful stories about the most unusual aspects of nature. She incorporates her non-fiction writing with storytelling, as she finds they really do work hand in hand. 

You are guaranteed to leave her sessions with a new animal discovery, an updated drawing tip and even a poo fact or two!

Where were you born?

I was born in Katoomba, NSW, but I’ve lived in many different towns and cities in my short, 28 years. These include Queanbeyan, Port Macquarie, Newcastle, Armidale and Tamworth. Who knows where I’ll end up next!

What other jobs have you had?

I like to think my previous jobs gave me the requirements to become an author and an illustrator. Working at a waterslide taught me to appreciate getting outside when being stuck in an office for hours, working in a colourful stationary store gave me the experience of working with kids, and selling clothes helped me realise just how much the world needs blobfish pyjamas…

What themes are recurring in your work?

I love to touch on topics such as evolution/animal adaptations, the importance of appreciating nature, and why pursuing a career in something you love is so important.
However, an unintended theme of my books has definitely been gross poo stories. I will aim to add them in as much as I can!

What have been the highlights of your career?

There have been far too many to count! But here are a few that stand out: getting to present to the kids in the Starlight Children’s Foundation, playing tug-o-war with a Tasmanian devil at Taronga Zoo (spoiler alert, I lost), and receiving 3 letters from Sir David Attenborough. 

Where have your works been published?

Fortunately, my books have been published in Australia, the UK, USA, South Korea, Sweden, Israel, and Russia. With more to come!

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about kids expanding their knowledge and appreciation of all aspects of nature, not just the common plants/animals we hear about all the time. I believe that with a wider understanding of the environment, it will help to preserve it.

I am also passionate about creating, there is no down sides to making art.

Haven’t I seen you before?

Perhaps you have! I love to be active on social media, whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or TikTok. But there may also be a chance you’ve spotted me chatting about my books on TV!

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

Did you know that naked mole rats like to eat their own poo? It helps to provide them with any nutrients they may be lacking!