Ardi Alemi

Ardi Alemi is a storyteller, animation director, and proud dad who believes every great adventure starts with a simple “what if?” Born and raised in Iran, Ardi now lives in New Zealand with his Dutch-English wife and Kiwi daughter. He brings a multicultural voice to his books and animations.

His picture book, The Little Mouse and the Wizard, reimagines a classic Iranian play with warmth, rhyme, and magical illustrations — perfect for young readers exploring themes of courage, kindness, and transformation.

When he's not writing or illustrating, Ardi creates animated stories for children through his creative studio, Digital Alchemist. His favourite collaborators? His daughter, who tests all the voices, rhymes, and silly ideas.

Ardi believes stories should spark imagination, build empathy, and remind us — no matter our size — that there’s a little bit of magic in everyone.