Maria Artho

Authors, Children

Author Elizabeth Kirkby McLeod at sea

Maria Artho took the leap into self-publishing with debut picture book, Jin’s Great Escape, under her imprint, Goat Island Publishing Ltd. She also created the popular memory card games NZ IN A BOX®, with the titles Te reo Māori, Animals of NZ, and Explore NZ.

Nestled in the scenic Matakana hills, Maria finds inspiration in her surroundings and life experiences alongside her Swiss-born husband, a metal sculptor. Together, they have nine adventurous grandchildren. This year, Maria has several writing projects in the works.

The Pet Problem by Elizabeth Kirkby-McLeod book cover

Jin’s Great Escape

The true story of a feisty little otter who escaped from Auckland Zoo.

For several weeks, New Zealand was gripped by otter fever as Jin was spotted in the suburbs, on beaches, and on islands in the Hauraki Gulf.

The mischievous little otter made world news and captured the hearts of a nation. Jin’s Great Escape is her tale.

ISBN 9780473360283
Picture book • 32 pages
230mm x 260mm
RRP $20