Andrew McDonald is the author of Hello Twigs and Real Pigeons. He lives on Wurundjeri Country, in Melbourne, Australia, where he makes up stories and writes them down. He loves writing books that make kids laugh, gasp and wonder about the world. His books have been shortlisted for prizes such as the Australian Book Industry Awards, the Readings Children’s Book Prize, and the YABBA, KOALA and KROC children’s choice book awards. In his spare time, Andrew likes to read books, eat cake and jump on the bed. Sometimes, all at once! Ben Wood is not a woody twig, even though his name implies it. He is actually the illustrator of Hello Twigs and Real Pigeons. Fun! He has illustrated many other books, and is drawn to stories that are funny and heartfelt. When not drawing Ben likes to read, eat overstuffed burritos, swim, run and walk his energetic dogs. Ben’s books have been included on the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s ‘Notables’ lists, and shortlisted for the Readings Children’s Book Prize and the Australian Book Industry Awards. When not in the studio, Ben speaks in schools and runs workshops about illustration. He lives in Naarm/Melbourne.
Praise for the series: 'TREE-mendously hilarious and fun!' – Remy Lai, award-winning author of Pawcasso. ‘This lively junior graphic novel series is pitch-perfect for newly independent readers. Featuring an endearing ensemble of anthropomorphised twigs (and a stump), the series follows their adventures, emphasising teamwork, creativity and problem-solving, all while celebrating friendship and the wonders of the natural world.' –The Guardian's Best Australian Children's Books of 2023. 'There is a remarkable amount of expression and emotion to be found on every page ... Absolute goofy goodness.' –Booklist 'Possibly the most unlikely kids comics main characters star in this graphic novel: twigs! Andrew McDonald and Ben Wood are great at bringing silly, fun, brightly colored, improbable stories to kids (their other set of books are about pigeons!)… A fun way to simultaneously explore a snail zoo and think about apologizing and making friends.' –John Patrick Green, creator of The InvestiGators ‘Stump, Red, Ziggy, and Noodle are all friends that laugh and learn through their various misadventures and comical misunderstandings. Perfect for fans of the “Pizza and Taco” series.’ –School Library Journal ‘These colourful books will awaken children to the beauty of nature, its usefulness and glory. They are encouraged through the twig’s examples, to be creative, innovative, work as a team, and accept each other’s differences.’ –Kids Book Review