The Adventures of Nicki and Ricky: Baffling Birds!

Marie Ventura (Pen Name: Rowena Zahnrei) is a neurodiverse author and independent scholar with a passion for science fiction, fantasy, and folklore. She loves to experiment and tackle new writing challenges, so her publications range from science comics for kids to peer-reviewed academic articles. She particularly enjoys writing middle grade and YA graphic novels. Rowena lives in RI, where she likes to hunt wildflowers and bike along the coastline. Sarah E Steinberg grew up in New Jersey telling stories to herself and her siblings, and never stopped living for words and pictures. Disappointed that her career in architecture did not lead to designing secret rooms, treehouses, or fantasy gardens, Sarah turned to storytelling, and brings a wealth of experience creating and illustrating space. A watercolorist with formal drafting experience, Sarah is dipping her brushes and pens into the world of picture books and graphic novels. She both writes her own children’s stories and collaborates with others, celebrating finding magic in the everyday world. Sarah lives in Portland, Oregon, with her partner Matt, son Ollie, an elderly dog, several noisy chickens, and some hummingbird pals.