Russell Irving

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Russell Irving was inspired to become a children’s book author and illustrator after becoming a grandfather at the tender age of fifty-seven.  

 

He has spent most of his professional life living and working as an environmental manager and educator across regional and remote parts of Australia, including many years working with Aboriginal Ranger groups and Indigenous Protected Areas (you can visit  www.countryneedspeople.org.au to learn about their work and culture). 

 

These experiences have taught him the calming and healing benefits of spending quiet time in nature, learning to patiently watch, listen and learn. He strives to inspire his readers to do likewise, to connect to, and care for the natural world around them, and in turn, themselves.

 

These themes, and the creative freedom of self-publishing, have resulted in a unique range of books that are soulful, quirky, and educational, and that appeal to parents and grandparents as much as children.  

 

Many of his books incorporate Aboriginal teachings when appropriate, and when the correct protocols and permissions are in place.  

 

Book sale proceeds are donated to the Aboriginal organisations he works with for each book.

 

Russell continues to learn and draw inspiration from his grand-children, and the many beaches, rivers, and forests of the sub-tropical north coast region of New South Wales which he now calls home.  You can find his books, illustrations, poems, and short stories at www.russell-irving.net