About the Author

Anouska Jones is a publisher, editor, book reviewer and writer. She is the Publisher for Exisle Publishing and EK Books, and is the Senior Editor of children’s literature website Kids’ Book Review. She lives on her rural property with her husband and daughter, three horses, six chickens, one dog, one cat and one budgie. Gwynneth Jones drew all through her maths book at school, so left to study art at TAFE and then majored in Plant and Wildlife Illustration at the University of Newcastle. Since then, Gwynneth has been imagining and drawing madly, exhibiting and holding market stalls, and creating picture books.

Reviews

"A story to warm the hearts of young children while they enjoy the entertaining illustrations by Gwynneth Jones. Another delightful book from EK Books"
*School Days*

"Jones’s narrative is warm and restrained enough to sustain short attention spans whilst the illustrations excite the tactile senses and illicit quite a bit of cheeky humour. Keep an eye out for the chook in rollers. So clever."
*Boomerang Books Blog*

"This book is ideal to use as a starting point to discuss with kids what friendship means and the different types of friends. It’s a beautifully illustrated book by Gwynneth Jones who brings the characters to life especially the gossiping hens."
*The Mummy Project*

"Patch and Ruby is a heartfelt metaphor about everyone’s yearning for a soul mate and the inevitable obstacles along the way. While younger children will embrace the humour and quirkiness of gossiping poultry and tiny guardians of the veggie patch, the deeper tale of finding someone to call home resonates on every page."
*Kids' Book Review*

"With a gently sweet story and engaging illustrations, you and your readers will want to make friends with Patch and Ruby."
*NC Teacher Stuff*

"Patch and Ruby is a cute picture book story about friendship, difference and belonging, filled with bold illustrations of farm life which youngsters, especially those with a passion for horses, will love."
*Aussie Reviews*

"Children will be able to identify with Sam and perhaps feel empowered by her solution to Patch’s loneliness. The theme of not fitting in and finding a friend who ‘gets you’ will resonate with young readers"
*Reading Time*

"this gentle picture book is a celebration of friendship...in particular, finding a friend who fits just right. With its loveable farmyard animals and positive message it will appeal to from ages 3-6.”
*BOOK: Patch and Ruby*

"This is a sweet look at friendship, the need to belong, and the improvement a good friend can bring to your life."
*Book Roundup, Picture Books*