Maria Gulemetova author page

Maria Gulemetova biography

Maria Gulemetova is a children’s author and illustrator known for her picture books. She studied at the Cambridge School of Art, where she completed an MA in Children’s Book Illustration. Gulemetova’s work often features gentle storytelling and expressive artwork, with a focus on themes of empathy and understanding.

Her debut picture book, Beyond the Fence, was published by Child’s Play in 2017. The story explores friendship and individuality through the relationship between a domesticated pig and a wild boar. Beyond the Fence was shortlisted for the Klaus Flugge Prize in 2018, which recognises promising newcomers to children’s book illustration.

Gulemetova has also illustrated The Lost Homework by Richard O’Neill, published by Child’s Play in 2020. This book centres on a young boy from a Traveller community and highlights the value of learning outside the classroom. The Lost Homework was longlisted for the 2021 UKLA Book Awards.

Maria Gulemetova’s work has been exhibited at children’s book festivals and illustration showcases. She continues to create picture books that encourage empathy and celebrate difference. Her book Beyond the Fence was shortlisted for the 2018 Klaus Flugge Prize.