Ali Rutstein author page

Ali Rutstein biography

Ali Rutstein is a British-born Australian children’s author based in Brisbane. She writes picture books, junior fiction, and short stories, often drawing inspiration from her background in zoology and her experiences as a cardiac genetic counsellor. Rutstein’s stories frequently feature animals and humorous situations, reflecting her passion for wildlife and her family’s adventures.

Her debut picture book, Ladybirds Do Not Go to Day Care, was published in 2023 and was longlisted for the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s 2024 Book of the Year: Early Childhood. The book addresses themes of separation anxiety and change through the perspective of a young child.

Rutstein’s other works include Kittens Do Not Care for Baths, Crocodiles Do Not Like the Bathroom, and A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing the Perfect Pet, all illustrated by Niña Nill or Tommy Doyle. These books continue her exploration of relatable childhood experiences with a humorous twist.

In addition to her children’s books, Rutstein won the 2023 StoryLinks Short Story Competition for adult writers with her story The Loophole, which was inspired by a conversation about pet ownership laws in Queensland. This achievement has encouraged her to pursue writing junior fiction and middle-grade manuscripts.