Book Launch: Panda, by Lauren Hackey, illustrated by Emma Hay

Join us in Green Square when we welcome author Lauren Hackney and illustrator Emma Hay! This dynamic duo will share their heartwarming new children’s book Panda with us, as well as a fun activity! ABOUT THE BOOK Meet PANDA - a black and white cow who is absolutely certain she is a dog. With a wagging tail, a playful spirit, and boundless affection, PANDA behaves just like one. The other animals try to set the record straight, but no matter how many times they tell her she is a cow, PANDA knows how she feels inside. It takes the farm's wise border collie stepping forward with kindness and understanding to show PANDA that her true worth has nothing to do with fitting a label. What matters most is being a good friend, and being exactly, wonderfully herself. This heartwarming tale explores identity, self-acceptance, and the power of friendship with gentleness and humour. Perfect for any child whose inside doesn't quite match their outside, PANDA encourages young readers to embrace who they are, celebrate their individuality, and understand that they are valued - not for what others perceive them to be, but simply for being them. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lauren Hackney is a Queensland-based author and screenwriter who began writing stories with her children in 2020 after her aviation career ended and her husband suffered a near-fatal heart attack. What began as a healing journey turned into a creative path, culminating in her internationally sold chapter book The Lolly Shop, which she has since adapted into an award-winning animated screenplay. Many stories have followed in forms of picture books, novels and screenplays in spanning many genres. Family, animation, drama and romantic comedy. Lauren's storytelling blends heart, humour, and a touch of magic - often inspired by family, the bond they share, and resilience. She is also the host of a YouTube interview series spotlighting authors and creatives across the literary world. ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR Emma Hay loves creating art that is cute, colourful and memorable. Following her creative passions she has had a fun filled career working in a wide range of children’s media including Animation, Gaming and Design. However, nothing has captivated her more than working in the delightful world of Children's Picture Book Illustration. When she is not working on her next picture book, Emma can be found enjoying her second (or third) cup of coffee and exploring the great indoors with her couch potato cat, Mr Chicken and little dog Theo. https://www.littleboatmedia.com/