Australian author Alison Lester, a luminary in the realm of children’s literature, invites readers into her enchanting world of storytelling, where nature and imagination intertwine. Renowned for her captivating picture books, Lester’s creative sanctuary in Nar Nar Goon, just southeast of Melbourne, reflects the beauty and wildness of the landscapes that inspire her work.
A Creative Haven
Lester’s studio is a testament to her artistic journey, brimming with sketches, paint palettes, and brushes, all set against a backdrop of lush greenery. Her workspace overlooks a paddock where her beloved ponies—Lily, Honey, Tom, and Sailor—roam freely, while two inquisitive guinea fowl add a lively touch to the scene. This idyllic setting is where she brings her stories to life, although she admits, “I hardly ever draw when I’m outside. I tend to just be out there and then remember it… and then I do my version of it.”
Inside her artistic haven, walls are adorned with treasures collected over decades, including a linocut from South America and a watercolour from the Northern Territory. One of her proudest possessions is an original illustration from her 2013 work *Kissed by the Moon*, showcasing a joyful baby nestled among flowers.
The Magic of *Magic Beach*
This week, the author is basking in the glow of recognition as four of her books are finalists in the Guardian Australia’s poll for the best children’s picture book. “I would be happy to have one, but to have four seems to be a bit of a miracle,” she muses, reflecting on her incredible journey as one of Australia’s first children’s laureates.
Lester recently returned from a visit to South Gippsland, where she operates a small gallery and gift shop. Her childhood, spent on a seaside farm, deeply informs her work, particularly in her classic picture book *My Farm* (1992). The coastal landscape of Walkerville South, a cherished summer retreat for her family, became the inspiration for her beloved *Magic Beach*. Initially centred on a character named Meg who believes in a mermaid, the story evolved through the encouragement of her editor, who recognised Lester’s deep connection to the place. “It’s very wild and woolly… you have your favourite little spots,” she reflects on the coastal haven now immortalised in her writing.
A Journey Through Generations
Since its release, *Magic Beach* has sold over 500,000 copies and is set to be adapted into a feature film in 2024. Interestingly, its success was not immediate. Lester recalls a gradual build-up of popularity, which ultimately affirmed her confidence in her unique storytelling style. “I hear from people who had it when they were children, and now their kids have it. I’ll probably get on to three generations soon,” she shares, highlighting the book’s impact on Australian families.
While *Magic Beach* remains a quintessentially Australian narrative, Lester acknowledges its limited international reach. “It hasn’t been translated many times… I think it’s very Aussie,” she notes, pointing to its intimate depiction of Australian summer life—surfing, splashing, and jumping waves.
The Art of Inspiration
The animals in Lester’s life frequently find their way into her illustrations. Poppy, her spirited jack russell, and Kaos, her ginger cat, embody the whimsical charm of her stories. Her distinctive illustration style—characterised by warm, grainy pencil drawings—has become instantly recognisable. “I think everything I do looks a little bit like a stuffed toy,” she jokes.
Lester’s creative process is rooted in traditional methods, using a 2B or 6B pencil for initial sketches before transferring them onto watercolour paper. Despite her attempts at digital artistry, she admits, “I’m really just terrible at it.” For her expansive book *Imagine*, which explores diverse natural landscapes, she relished the challenge of fitting as many animals into the illustrations as possible.
Her inspiration can strike at any moment. A particularly memorable instance occurred during a flight home from Perth when an idea for *Kissed by the Moon* struck her while rummaging for something to draw on. “All I could find to draw on was the air sick bag,” she recalls. This humble piece of paper is now enshrined at the National Centre for Australian Children’s Literature.
A Lifelong Commitment
Lester is currently finalising a new addition to her oeuvre titled *Nicky Catches Koalas*, which will see young readers embark on a global adventure to aid endangered species. “I have been working on this for easily 10 years… I’ve been having a lovely time drawing sloths and Mexican wolves,” she enthuses, reflecting her ongoing commitment to environmental themes and wildlife conservation.
“I love the natural world and being part of it,” she states, encapsulating the essence of her work and the deep-rooted connection she shares with the landscapes of Australia.
Why it Matters
Alison Lester’s contributions to children’s literature do more than entertain; they foster a profound appreciation for nature and the environment among young readers. Her ability to weave personal experiences into universal themes ensures that her stories resonate across generations, instilling a love for the natural world that is increasingly vital in today’s climate. As we celebrate her artistry, we recognise the lasting impact her work has on shaping the minds and hearts of children, reminding us all of the magic found in our own backyards.
