Milly and the Mulberry Tree

A delightful story about the magic of both home and other worlds, which will encourage exploration, caring for the environment, and seeing the wonder in everywhere we go. When Milly and Papa plant a mulberry tree, Milly has no idea how magical and inspiring the tree will become. From nurturing silkworms to making magic potion mulberry ice-cream, the mulberry tree becomes the centre around which Milly’s life turns. Then, Milly grows older, and finds herself travelling to new and exciting places. She discovers the fabric her silkworms created, and builds a life in a beautiful, faraway land. But she never forgets the magic of the mulberry tree, and always longs to return… Milly and the Mulberry Tree is a story about growing up, family and home. Full of colourful, whimsical illustrations, it explores our ties with nature and places in a way that will resonate with any young readers who like playing outdoors, or have their own special hideaway. It also holds an inspirational message about the importance of exploring new worlds as we grow, while keeping home close to our hearts. Inspired by the 100-year-old mulberry tree that grows in the author’s own childhood garden, this is a book full of heart and joy that will be a delight for families to share.

Vikki Conley is a award winner children's author, book reviewer and intrepid adventurer. She began writing as a child, creating handcrafted books.

Vikki is a nature lover, intrepid traveler and passionate climber of a 100-year-old mulberry tree that still grows at her childhood home. She writes children’s stories that celebrate the spirit of wonder, adventure and freedom that she wishes every child could enjoy.

Deb Hudson is an illustrator who is passionate about drawing bright, happy and colourful images that evoke emotion and thought in their viewer. Inspired by joy- and wonder-filled dreamy moments of the everyday, Deb has been drawing and creating since she was a little girl. As a child her mother said she was ‘off with the fairies’ in her own little dream world, dancing about in dress ups and talking to imaginary friends.

Deb was previously a teacher, and taught English in Japan for four years. She then studied for a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, and became a mother. She lives in the fabulous city of Melbourne, Australia with her husband, three children, energetic border collie and a bright yellow canary.

Her first picture book,The Golden Thread,was published in 2019. Her other work includes Pear of Hope (2021), published by EK Books.