Isabelle Duff is a farmer, author, and student at the University of New South Wales, where she is studying Advanced Science and Commerce. Susannah Crispe is a Canberra-based children’s book illustrator with a background in zoology and art history and a love of beautifully crafted books.
“Told through the perspective of Sal’s pony, this is a book that tackles an issue that is currently common in a post Covid landscape: social and school anxiety. With a hopeful ending, this picture book is a reminder that sometimes the things we want are closer than we think if we take a leap and be exactly who we already are.” * Love Four Learning via instagram * “An uplifting message about confidence and friendship, and offers a simple and non-threatening starting point for discussions with little readers (aged 4+) who might have anxieties about school or other experiences beyond their comfort zones.“ * Books+Publishing * “Sal feels brave and tough when she is with her pony, but scared and anxious at school. In this heart-warming book, Sal learns to channel her nerves and be her true self, her trusted pony by her side.” * Australian Women’s Weekly * “I love how the story challenges stigma about school anxiety with a protagonist who is brave in a context that many city kids would find frightening. It also hints, without being didactic, that having the courage to reveal our true selves is a path to finding acceptance and friendship..” * Children’s Book Council of Australia - Reading Time * “It’s a common thing for children to feel anxious at school. Often they behave totally different to how they behave at home, with those they love. This is a heartwarming story about finding courage and friendship. It’s a comforting account of how showing a little bravery can lead to happiness.” * Get Kids Booked (via Instagram) *