SOPHIE SPILLARD

My writing draws on a range of inspiration, and at the heart of it: many of the people [and four-legged friends] that I’ve met on my adventures. Their kindness, their warmth, and their approach in moments of adversity inspire me.

I’ve always been captivated by the natural beauty of our planet; it’s this curiosity that led me to study Geophysics. I find pure joy in seeing the stars glimmer, the sun rise, and the changing faces of the moon. When I was quite young, I won a competition to have a star named after me [Science].

Growing up in London, I was surrounded by different cultures and influences, which drove my curiosity to explore. I've crossed paths with so many wonderful people, and have been lucky to see the world from their perspective. There’s beauty in those moments: they imprint on your heart.

These influences are captured in my series of books, with each focusing on a new country – from Brazil to Ecuador, Japan to Morocco, and Spain to the United Arab Emirates. The books weave together stories that celebrate local traditions and explore the natural environment – because clearly, 'Geophysics' is an untapped niche in children's literature!

In discovering unusual corners of the world, and the diverse communities who treasure them, the books intend to inspire the next generation of explorers! I'm excited that each book will share some profits and highlight the work of a charity in the country that inspired its story. 

Alongside writing, I'm working on software for the charitable sector, practising karate, and baking cakes [with questionable results].