Gabriella and a very young 4-month-old Teddy met in an orphanage in Java, Indonesia in 2013. Their bond was instant, and it was inevitable that they be together.

With many obstacles along the way Gabriella finally adopted Teddy when she was two years old, and this was the beginning of their life together. Their now blended family live by the beach in Bali, with Teddys dearest companion her little dog Lala, and her big surfer sister Georgie-May.

Gabriella drew inspiration from the immediate connection she saw when Lala came into Teddy’s life - a birthday gift that has seen years of friendship and love blossom. In real life, this connection has been defined by special experiences shared and many lessons learnt.

With this in mind, Gabriella has incorporated lessons into defining themes within each book. As you turn the pastel filled pages, illustrated by Teddy herself, you feel the energy created by the secret language they share. The books are set in their beachside home on the magical Island of Bali, were written in both English and Indonesian copy to leave a lasting legacy of this special time and to also pay homage to Teddy’s Indonesian heritage.

We hope you enjoy sharing in the story of Teddy and Lala as much as we enjoyed creating these books.