Skyla Knopp - published illustrator

Skyla Knopp has illustrated a book her speech and drama teacher, Carol Krueger, has written about Syrian refugees. Her illustrations are beautiful and when combined with the text, have created a very moving story.

Q: Tell us, how did this story come to be?

A: My family is involved with the Dunedin charity The Starfish Collective. The Starfish motto is " Everyone Matters" We are passionate about helping any refugee or person in difficulty, in whatever way we can. I have met many former refugees that have come from war-torn unsafe countries. This book is inspired by them.

Q: How did you meet the author Carol Krueger?

A; Carol is my speech and drama teacher. My mum introduced her to our former refugee friends and they inspired her to write this story. She asked me to illustrate and I was excited to do so. I love to draw. 

Q: How old were you when you illustrated this book?

A: I was 10 years old.

Q: Is Ayesha a true story? 

A:  Ayesha is a fictional character. The events in the story are all real things that happened, but they happened to three different Syrian families that now live here in Dunedin.

Q: Do you have any other literary projects in the pipeline?

A: Yes, I have written my own book. It is called A Cat's Tale. I am illustrating it now and I hope to publish it in the future.

Thank you for the interview Skyla. What a fantastic achievement and a worthwhile cause. If you would like to purchase a copy for yourself, you can find it at the University Bookshop. A portion of the book proceeds will go to The Starfish Collective. Skyla has kindly donated a copy of Ayesha to the library. You can find it on display at the front desk.