Sally Symes author page

Sally Symes biography

Sally Symes is a British author, designer, and illustrator of children’s books, with over 25 years’ experience in the field. She holds a BA in Graphic Design and an MA in Narrative Illustration & Editorial Design. Before transitioning to writing, Symes worked as a designer and paper engineer, including a tenure as Senior Editor at Campbell/Macmillan Children’s Books, where she gained extensive insight into the children’s publishing market.

Symes has authored and designed more than 50 books for children, specialising in both fiction and non-fiction for ages 0–10. Her work often incorporates rhyme and interactive elements. She is known for her collaborations with illustrator Nick Sharratt, resulting in the popular Finger Wiggle series, which includes titles such as Something Beginning with Blue, Whose Nose and Tail and Toes Are Those?, and Yawn. These books have been recognised with several awards, including The Educational Writers’ Award for The Gooey, Chewy Rumble Plop Book and the Southampton Favourite Book to Share Award for Something Beginning with Blue.

In addition to her creative work, Symes offers services in book design, art direction, and project management, with a particular focus on novelty formats and simple pop-ups. She is represented by Caroline Walsh at David Higham Associates for writing and illustration work.