Caryl Lewis is a multi-award-winning Welsh novelist, children’s writer, playwright, and screenwriter. Her breakthrough novel Martha, Jac a Sianco is widely regarded as a modern classic of Welsh literature and the film adaptation, with a screenplay by Caryl herself, went on to win six BAFTAs and the Spirit of the Festival Award at the Celtic Media Festival. Her latest book The Paper Girl—a fairy tale for children and adults alike, illustrated by paper artist Kanako Abe—was written for her daughter. 

Based in Seattle, Washington, Kanako Abe specializes in the intricate art of kirie, a traditional Japanese term that translates to paper cutting. She transforms sheets of washi paper—hand-dyed washi with indigo, rust, or Japanese sumi ink—into exquisite designs using a precision knife. Hours of dedication and concentration are woven into each piece. Visit her website kanakoabe.art/and follow her on Instagram under the handle @abemanatee