Jana Novotny Hunter was born in Czechoslovakia and grew up in England. A graduate of Horsey College of Art, she spent many years in America where she worked as a Textile Designer, Teacher, Writer and Mum.

Jana has written over forty books for children, including the prize-winning story of a deaf girl's struggle to become oral, 'Read My Lips'.

As a Conference Speaker and Lecturer, Jana focuses on the relationship between image and text in picture books, an expertise that has led to becoming an editor as well as a reviewer.

At home with kids, whatever their age, Jana loves to visit schools and libraries or run writing workshops.

 Her lively presentations are popular with both teachers and pupils, offering the kind of fun in learning which enhances and supports the National Curriculum.