Get To
Know Kat
Hi, I’m Kat - a Tasmanian writer, illustrator, editor and the person behind Pesky Plover Studio (Paul the mascot is more of a vibes manager, to be honest).
I created this studio because my head is full of stories that won’t stop squawking at me. If you’re here, then I’m willing to bet that your head is full of them too.
My creative life started in a small country town, surrounded by books, animals, magic and a handful of brilliant teachers who made space for storytelling. I spent my childhood filling notebooks with sentences and scribbles, and daydreaming about making books. I haven’t really stopped.
These days, I help other authors shape their stories.
Whether I’m illustrating a character, editing a scribbly first draft, or designing a cover that finally feels right, I’m always working towards the same goal: turning a noisy, persistent idea into something beautiful and lasting.
In 2020, I wrote and illustrated my debut children’s book, Diary of a Red Handfish - a project that combined my love of storytelling, science and strange little creatures. Since then, I’ve continued to work with fellow authors on books I believe in, offering illustration, editing and design support to help bring their ideas out of their head and onto the page.
In my spare time I’m a mum to whirlwind little boy, a late-start ballerina, a slow runner, and I can quote the entire Simpsons Movie off by heart (I’m embarrassed but also kind of proud, ya know?).
There. Now you know me, so it must be my turn to get to know you!
If you’ve got a story that’s ready to take flight (or at least squawk to life), or you just want to have a natter about all things books, I’d love to hear from you.
Neurodivergent-Friendly, Always
Pesky Plover Studio is a neurodivergent-friendly business, always. As a late diagnosed ADHD-er, I know how much it can take a toll on your creative self.
That means flexible communication, clear expectations, space for big ideas and no shame if your brain does things a little differently.
That might look like:
Clear, flexible communication (Email only? Voice notes? Bullet points? Let’s find what works)
Project timelines that honour both deadlines and brain fog
No judgment for needing reminders, rescheduling or over-explaining
A gentle, collaborative process where your ideas feel safe (even the chaotic ones)
This Plover’s Been Perched On
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Pedestrian
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Whim
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Handfish Conservation
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Kind World Club
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Busy Little Bee Books
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FYA
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Eureka Street
“A creative life is an amplified life. It’s a bigger life, a happier life, a more expanded life, and a hell of a lot more interesting life.”
- Liz Gilbert
Whether you’re ready to dive beak-first into a project or you’re just dipping your toes in the birdbath, I’d love to hear from you. Fill in as much or as little as feels right.
I'll get back to you as soon as I can (usually within 2–3 business days).