Press Kit
Bios:
Short version (64 words)
Jonny Parry is a children’s author based in Switzerland who wrote his first book, How the Platypus Became, at the age of ten for his little sister. Now, more than 20 years later, he’s reimagined the story for her children - and for curious young readers everywhere. Jonny writes joyful stories about transformation, individuality and embracing who you are.
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Visit Jonny at www.jonnyparry.com
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Longer version (115 words)
Jonny Parry is a British children’s author and communications professional living in Basel, Switzerland. His debut picture book, How the Platypus Became, began as a hand-written story for his younger sister when he was just ten years old. Reimagined as a beautifully illustrated book for today’s readers, it celebrates self-acceptance, emotional growth and the joy of being “a little bit of everything.”
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Having grown up in Devon, UK, Jonny spent his childhood adventuring across the moors with his dad and being told stories by grandfathers. Jonny now lives in Basel, Switzerland, where he continues to write stories that spark curiosity, encourage self-belief and celebrate the joy of being different.
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Visit Jonny at www.jonnyparry.com
Book information
How the Platypus Became
A story of transformation, friendship and finding your place in the world.
Author: Jonny Parry
Illustrator: Ffion Evans
Publisher: River & Sky Books (Basel, Switzerland)
ISBN: 978-1-0682329-0-9
Description: Long ago, when the world was new, a cat, a fish, a duck and a frog each wished for the gifts the others had. Instead of letting jealousy get the better of them, they came together and set off to the Spark of Life, the place where every living thing began.
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What they found changed everything. From its shining bill to its webbed feet, a brand-new animal emerged - one that was a little bit of everyone, and entirely itself.
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How the Platypus Became is a fantastical picture book for children aged 4-8 about curiosity, friendship and finding your place in the world. Perfect for families, classrooms and anyone who has ever wondered how the platypus might have come to be.
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Target Age Range: 4-8
Themes: Platypus, Australian animals, folklore, origin stories, nature, friendship, curiosity, identity, uniqueness and emotional development