Alison Lester started drawing horses when she was a little girl, and she has been making pictures ever since. Her affectionate illustrations of birds, animals, plants and people celebrate the wonderful world around us.

In her introduction, Alison recalls getting into trouble for doodling on books, walls and tablecloths, without realising she was doing it. She gives tips on how to draw, encouraging children to try different techniques and to keep on drawing, every day!

Pick up your pencils, pens and crayons, and colour the pictures from the stories you've enjoyed over the years - Imagine, Magic Beach, Kissed by the Moon, Noni the Pony and more.