Diann Rodgers-Healey, like so many creative locals, draws inspiration from the picturesque beauty of Kiama. 

Her new book series, Shirley’s Imaginarium, brings to life the quirky, fun and secret world of local birds. With these stories, she hopes to share her childlike wonder and remind readers to never let go of their imagination.

Diann’s creative spark emerged from a difficult time. During COVID, while caring for her ill father and ​feeling ​the loss of her mother, she sought solace in nature.

“I think I just came home and went into the garden and just sat there. And that's how I started all this, ​when I just started noticing the birds … writing became my escape.” 

Some of Diann's birds in her backyard

Nature has always been a source of inspiration. She fondly recalls a visit to a rose garden next to a small cottage during her early school years in India. 

“I just plucked little roses. And I think that is where my soul is.”

What began as a personal refuge soon blossomed into something much larger - a project to bring love and happiness to children everywhere. “To me, when I write, every single word has beauty to it. You know, it's like playing an instrument,” she said.

As an ​Anglo-Indian​ woman​, she has used her background to research and advocate for diversity, earning several honours and establishing the Australian Centre for Leadership for Women’s Diversity Award in 2016. 

She has also worked as a tertiary educator, dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential.

Shirley’s Imaginarium launches in a safe, magical garden, with each book​ ​telling the story of what the birds get up to and what they think of the human gardener, Shirley. 

Diann photographed every bird herself. As her project evolved, she taught herself Photoshop and InDesign, designing the book’s vibrant pages with ​editorial help from her son, ​Aaron Healey. Creativity truly runs in the family.

She’s captivated by each bird’s personality: some wise, some mischievous and all full of stories.

Her series is now available at Toyworld Kiama and online. It makes a lovely gift for children​ aged 7-12 and anyone young at heart, and is a beautiful way to nurture imagination.

“It’s for the love and the joy​, and spreading your love and spreading that garden that you’re writing it from.”

Diann will be opening Shirley's Imaginarium later this year in Kiama, so stay tuned. 

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In the meantime, step into Diann's garden and find your childlike wonder with Shirley's Imaginarium series.