Laurie Elmquist is the author of several books for children including her most recent picture book, Lila Makes a Monster (Orca 2026). She writes stories that combine humour, heartfelt connections, and nature. Her board book, Country Baby (Orca 2024), made the list of The Best Children’s Books of the Year 2025, and her chapter book, Where’s Burgess? (Orca 2018) was nominated for a Silver Birch Express award. Laurie earned her MA from the University of Windsor in English Literature and Creative Writing. She taught creative writing at Camosun College for many years, and loved sharing her passion for writing stories. She is active in several writing groups including the BC Federation of Writers, CWILL, and Inked Voices. She was fortunate to grow up in a remote and beautiful place on the Saugeen Peninsula in Ontario, which she attributes to her love of nature. Now, she lives in Victoria BC with her husband and dog, Gus. When she is not writing, she loves to take Gus on adventures to the beach or along local trails.