Melanie Drewery (original) (raw)

Melanie Jane Drewery (born 1970) is a New Zealand children's writer, illustrator and potter, best-known for her Nanny Mihi series of children's picture books. She is part of the iwi (tribe) of Ngāti Māhanga, and her books feature the use of te reo Māori (the Māori language) and Māori culture. She has said she believes it is important for New Zealand children to see their culture reflected in books. In 2008 her book Tahi: One Lucky Kiwi won the award for Best Picture Book at the New Zealand Post Book Awards for Children and Young Adults.