Charles Boday

Charles Boday was born in New Zealand where he studied Philosophy and Law. In his 20's he traveled extensively and lived in Sydney and London before meeting his wife in New York, where they currently live. They have two children and while they were growing he was delighted to rediscover the joy of children's literature of all age levels.

During this period he owned and operated two bars in downtown New York, which in their decoration explored the themes of tribal art from Polynesia and Melanesia, and the US Pacific Northwest respectively. He was also interested in tattooing, which has a particularly strong presence in Polynesia, and where it is still practiced traditionally by hand, as well as by machine. With the support of tattooer friends he learned how to tattoo by hand himself, and in 2014 published HANDPOKE TATTOO about traditional tattooing, with 23 artists talking about their work in their own words.

Along with his enjoyment of children's literature, he developed an interest in birds, combining the two in the adventures of a young owl who is afraid to fly. OLLIE, THE OWL WHO WAS AFRAID TO FLY was published in 2021, and has Ollie travelling around the world meeting flightless birds and listening to their thoughts and advice about his fears. It's a book of empowerment for children, about facing their fears without shame or embarrassment. It's beautifully illustrated by Mia Boday, and was itself a work of love, and a father/daughter collaboration. They are currently working on Ollie's next adventure.

More detailed information can be found on his website, www.charlesboday.com. He is also on instagram @charlesboday. Mia's art can be found on www.miaboday.com. Ollie can be found at www.ollieowlsworld.com and on instagram @ollieowlsworld.

Kirkus Reviews said that OLLIE is "A delightfully told, beautifully illustrated tale, that subtly teaches the value of testing your limits."

Marisa Kakoulas from 'Needles and Sins' said about HANDPOKE TATTOO: "...what he has accomplished...is highlighting exceptional art by exceptional artists."