Mischa Pearson

I've always described myself as having an "allergy to numbers." My brain, as far back as I can remember, has been pure Teflon when it comes to maths—but wonderfully Velcro to words. While living with dyscalculia has brought its fair share of missed trains, overpaid bills, and timekeeping disasters (usually pointed out by my son, who started correcting me around the time he turned six), it’s also gifted me a unique lens through which I write: one that celebrates difference.

Writing was always my refuge and my home since I first learned to hold a pen. My debut children’s book, The Count Dyscalculia, was born from my experience of growing up with dyscalculia. It follows Cal, a lovable Count who’s terrible with numbers—yet brilliant in ways that matter far more. The story offers a message not just to neurodiverse children, but to anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t quite fit into the traditional mold. Because I believe every brain is wired for something wonderful.

More recently, I published Honeysuckle Lodge Cottage, from The Mouse Family That Live By The Brambles series, expanding my world as an author and illustrator, and diving deeper into the creative playground where small characters take on big adventures and unassuming friendships. These stories continue to explore themes of courage, curiosity, and embracing who we are—quirks and all. I guess that's what I continue to stand for. Because at the heart of all my work is a desire to inspire young readers (and grown-up ones too) to celebrate their own way of thinking, feeling, and being in the world. Because life should be a brave and beautiful adventure—and every child deserves to know they belong in it, just as they are.