Leo Donaldson

Meet Children’s Book Author and Illustrator Leo Donaldson

Leo Donaldson has written and illustrated a series of fantastic children’s books. Learn more about the author, his books and what inspires him.

About Leo Donaldson

Author, animator, illustrator and teacher, Leo Donaldson has a passion for the sea and the boats that brave its waters. While visiting a working harbour in Cape Town, South Africa, Leo spotted a tiny tugboat that made a big impression. Intrigued by a boat only large enough for one man to be captain and crew, Leo found the inspiration for the characters for his children’s books; and Toby the Big Little Tugboat was born.

Leo has channeled a love for his children and for writing into early reader books that all feature a lesson in the story. As a teacher, he knows that sharing a message using the written word can be incredibly powerful. In his amusing first readers, he’s managed to not only tell a wonderful story, but add a life lesson in too. From sharing with one other, to putting others needs first and being honest, his colourful children’s books gently explain morals, and why doing the right thing is always best. Leo has a firm conviction that "The written word can have life-changing consequences when emanating from the pen of a ready writer", and his books for toddlers prove this.

Today, Leo lives in Cape Town and is married to the love of his life, Janine. He says that he will probably write children’s books until the day he can no longer think of new stories, or has breath in his lungs; whichever comes first. He’s also grown even fonder of boats, and while there's the sea calling and a whole world to explore, he’s keen to share it with children in the most exciting, enriching way.