The Newcastle-based author and illustrator has published six books, she has another one in the works, and she’s educating children across the country about Australia’s great flora and fauna in an engaging and fun way.

“I think some of it has been luck, and some of it is also creating my own luck in finding a career that focuses on all my passions,” said Sami when asked if she always knew this would be her path. 

“I can’t imagine doing anything else and I think, one way or another, I would have found a way to be doing what I’m doing now.”

Art and the outdoors have always been main players in Sami’s identity. Growing up on five acres, Sami had donkeys, cows, horses, birds, fish and plenty of native bushland that kickstarted her love for all things outdoors.

“Mum was an artist, and she would make paintings of our pets and hang them around the house. It’s always been normal to just pick up a pencil and see where it takes us.

“It turns out it’s taken me to being an author and illustrator and my sister to being a tattoo artist. We’re both exactly where we’re meant to be,” said Sami.

Given her background, it’s no shock Sami has become one of Australia’s most influential young publishers.

In addition to her existing knowledge and raw talent, Sami will spend months preparing and learning as much as she can about a topic before she starts working on a new book.

“I have to do a lot of research and sometimes it starts with something relatively simple. For example, I might make a shortlist of the typical animals that people think are really ugly.

“I try to make sure I avoid any animals that I feel are overdone while also including any classics.

“Then I really dive in – reading scientific papers, contacting experts in the field and really soaking up any information I can on the topic I’m covering.”

Her most recent book, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Extinct Animals, focuses on the contributions over 60 extinct or under threat animals have made to the natural world while shining a light on the importance of wildlife conservation.

Sami’s teaching and talents are not only limited to the pages of her books; she has also been travelling around Australia for the most part of 2024 teaching interactive workshops to students.

“This year, I’ve attended 115 different schools and libraries, performed 283 one-hour sessions, spoke to around 22,000 kids, instructed around 300 step-by-step line tutorials, stayed at around 47 different hotels and answered at least 11,000 questions,” she said.

In addition to the workshops, Sami has worked with St Pius X Primary School Windale for the second year in a row, to co-collaborate on a book with students as part of the Growing Minds, Inspiring Readers project.

The initiative sees Sami attend the school to work with the entire student body on developing a storyline and illustrations which are then made into a final hard cover book with the support of the Catholic Schools Office.

Year 6 student Allira Knox said the experience is something her and her peers took a lot from, and she hopes to see continue for future years.

“We feel so lucky to have been able to create a book with Sami. It helps build our confidence in writing and drawing and also teaches us about important wildlife,” she said.

“When we saw the final book, we felt proud of ourselves. It’s really cool to know we are published authors.”

Sami said the student’s willingness, readiness and level of curiosity were evident throughout the process.

“Every step of the way, it was special. But I think the final result, where the students get to have the book in their hands and show their contributions, is a moment that will stay with me forever.

“It’s a big achievement and they should be proud of themselves.”

In addition to her work with Windale, Sami will also collaborate on a children’s book with St Joseph’s Primary School in Gloucester. The book, anticipated to launch next year, will enable students to work with Sami on using their lived experiences as the basis for the story.

As the school year comes to a close, Sami’s focus is shifting to her upcoming seventh book.

While she’s yet to divulge exactly what the topic will be, two things are for certain: it will include beautiful illustrations and offer detailed education.

“My hope is my books, my workshops, my whole mission, teaches people that we can appreciate nature, and it doesn’t have to give us something of value in return.

“We need to look after nature, while it’s still here.”

For anyone else looking to get into a career that breaks the social norms, Sami says it’s worth every bump in the road.

“The world is waiting for your unique voice. So, keep creating, stay curious, and trust that your work has the potential to inspire others someday,” she said.

“When you do this, creativity will flow naturally. You’ll always have something new to explore and that excitement will come through in your work.

“Just keep pushing forward and know your work matters. You’re going to find your audience, you’re going to find your way.”

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