Nicki Esler Gill — Children's Book Author
I believe Nicki will be a prominent voice in the children’s book world.
Hello there
Hi, I’m Nicki
I believe children’s books are a special kind of magic. They inspire flights of fancy and snorts of laughter, facilitate precious bedtime rituals of closeness and connection, and provide a resource for families grappling with challenges, from birth to death and everything in between. And they do these things, all in a format geared to little eyes, little ears, and little hearts!
My best-selling books, including the Speech Pathology Award–shortlisted My Body, My Brain, are trusted by thousands of families to facilitate big conversations — from body safety to neurodiversity, self-advocacy to mindfulness — in a way that is safe, engaging, and child centred.
I am based in Melbourne, Australia and love visiting schools to help the next generation find their voice.
Featured book
My Body, My Rules
A warm, engaging picture book that teaches about bodily autonomy and consent — as both a giver and receiver of touch. It affirms the bodily autonomy of every child, and empowers young readers with practical tools to recognise and respect the boundaries of others. The book's messages about consent are framed within an exuberant rhyming text, celebrating the wonderful ways people share touch, to show love, have fun, and keep each other safe. Illustrated by Dasha Riley.
The Blog
Join me on Little KidLit Mountain
A celebration of the wonder, beauty and cleverness of books for kids — and the people who make them. Reviews, interviews, cover reveals, craft notes, and a flag waved high for emerging talent.
My Body, My Brain: Why I wrote a picture book on neurodiversity
Read post: My Body, My Brain: Why I wrote a picture book on neurodiversity
Cultivating a growth mindset in your creative practice: Yes, there's always more to learn
Read post: Cultivating a growth mindset in your creative practice: Yes, there's always more to learn
In praise of having a room of one's own to write from (metaphorically speaking, although a literal room is nice too)
Read post: In praise of having a room of one's own to write from (metaphorically speaking, although a literal room is nice too)
My pathway to publication: In praise of editorial assessments
Read post: My pathway to publication: In praise of editorial assessments
About Nicki
About Nicki
Nicki Esler Gill is the author of My Body, My Rules from Scholastic Press, with new releases coming soon. She has a Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from New York University, where she also taught writing. Nicki is currently at work on a middle grade novel which counts Nick Cave and Margaret Atwood amongst its influences.
Get in touch
A little hello goes a long way
For school visits, festival invitations, or just to say hi — I’d love to hear from you.
Say hello→Or find me on Instagram @nickieslergill