Vikki Conley is a children’s author, book reviewer and intrepid adventurer. She began writing as a child, creating handcrafted books. She has worked as a professional writer/communicator for two decades across three continents. During 10 years working for World Vision, Vikki interviewed many families and children who shared extraordinary stories. She delivered readers to children in Somalia who had never seen a book. Vikki lives in a house built largely of recycled materials in Victoria, Australia.
Penelope Pratley has been mucking about with paint since she was a small girl. With a Bachelor of Fine Art and a Bachelor of Teaching, she has taught art from preschool to high school. She now works from her home studio as an illustrator, tutoring aspiring artists, and producing and selling her work under the business name Penelope’s Nest. Penelope is passionate about providing children with the skill set to successfully use different art mediums at an early age, enabling them to see and interpret their environment creatively. She is the illustrator of The Art Garden (EK Books).
Senior Matters
“Ella and Mrs Gooseberry is a beautifully emotive picture book that is sure to leave your heart happy”
Mums At The Table
“Show how a little bit of kindness can change the world”
In Their Own Write
“brought a smile to my day and I’m sure it will become a favourite with families.” Click here to view
Swings and Roundabouts
“The length of this emotive story is not too long allowing it to be read in a variety of situations, from mat times, small groups and one-on-one and perfect for tamariki (children) 3+”
Ripple Kindness Project
“Vikki Conley has done a great job shining a light on love, what it means to different people and how kindness and caring can reignite love for someone who has lost it. I also love the gentle pictures by Penelope Pratley. I hope this sweet book encourages children all over the globe to show kindness, love and consideration to help unite communities and give life meaning for those who are lonely. Kids really can make a difference and this book shows just how much power they have to create change!” Click here to read more
School Days Magazine
“A lovely illustrated book to read with young ones showing what community and showing a little kindness can do.” Click here to view
Reading Time
“For preschool and primary readers, Ella and Mrs Gooseberry is a charming tale with a powerful message of empathy and kindness. Perhaps we can all encourage our children to look around them for signs of someone feeling lonely.” Click here to read in full
Bottom Shelf Edu Blog
“This is a charming story that will help young readers understand that love can take many forms.” Click here to read in full
Blue Wolf Reviews “ In this enchanting story, accompanied by gentle and gracious illustrations, Ella learns a lot about life, and a lot about love, happiness and being kind when someone around you ‘loses their love.” Click here to read in full
Buzz Words
“would be a great inclusion in the primary classroom to spark conversation about kindness and compassion.” Click here to view
Kids’ Book Review
ran a profile on author Vikki Conley AKA Lucky Legs – click the link to find out why! Click here to read in full.
Literacy, Families and Learning
“A little girl with her own warm heart takes the time to work out how to warm the heart of a seemingly sad elderly neighbour” Click here to view
Pinerolo “A tender and loving story sensitively illustrated.”
Read for Fun review
“This is a wonderful story to explain love to children, as well as encouraging them to get to know their elderly neighbours and others in their community. ” Click here to read in full
Female.com.au
“A heart-warming picture book about a child’s understanding of love, selfless giving and how it makes you feel.” Click here to read in full
R U Joking Grandad Reviews and features – Book of the Week
“Love is the theme of this book and the reader learns what love is all about. The reader will also love all the characters particularly Ella and even grumpy Mrs Goseberry (what a tremendous name). They will love the story. They will love the pictures. They will love the book.” Click to read more
Dim’s Write Stuff
“This honey-sweet story is dripping with tenderness. It subtly addresses the benefit of exercising empathy towards our fellow neighbours especially those who may be living alone” Click here to read in full
