Picture an Australian storyteller who turned pigeons into crime-fighting heroes—meet Andrew McDonald! This Melbourne-based children’s author has won over young readers with his wildly funny and imaginative books. Known for the bestselling Real Pigeons series, McDonald crafts stories that spark laughter, curiosity, and a lifelong love of reading.
With a knack for blending humor and mystery, McDonald’s work, often paired with Ben Wood’s vibrant illustrations, has become a staple in children’s literature. His engaging school visits and passion for storytelling make him a beloved figure in inspiring the next generation of readers.
The Making of Andrew McDonald
Born in Melbourne’s northern suburb of Watsonia, Andrew McDonald grew up balancing indoor reading marathons with outdoor football games. As a self-described ‘average kid,’ he dreamed of becoming either an author or a footballer—thankfully, his love for storytelling won out. His early career included stints as a bookseller, editor, and even a pancake-flipper, where he perfected his pancake batter with egg whites. A graduate of RMIT’s Professional Writing and Editing diploma, McDonald honed his craft while immersing himself in children’s literature, eventually finding his unique voice in humorous, kid-friendly narratives.
Andrew McDonald’s Unforgettable Stories
McDonald’s breakout hit, the Real Pigeons series, follows a squad of feathered detectives solving quirky mysteries with teamwork and wit. Books like Real Pigeons Fight Crime and Real Pigeons Eat Danger deliver fast-paced plots and laugh-out-loud moments, making them perfect for kids aged 5–8. The series, soon to be a Nickelodeon TV show, has been shortlisted for prestigious awards like the Australian Book Industry Awards and the Readings Children’s Book Prize.
His Hello Twigs series, also illustrated by Ben Wood, targets younger readers with heartwarming tales of friendship and surprises, like the mischievous Red in Twig Friends. McDonald’s writing style is playful yet purposeful, weaving themes of collaboration and creativity into stories that captivate young imaginations. His ability to transform everyday characters—like pigeons or twigs—into unforgettable heroes sets him apart in children’s literature.
Other notable works include The Greatest Blogger in the World, a humorous tale of a young blogger’s misadventures, and Son of Death, showcasing his versatility. McDonald’s stories are designed to make kids ‘laugh, gasp, and wonder,’ encouraging them to see the world through a lens of curiosity and fun.
Why Andrew McDonald Matters
Andrew McDonald’s impact extends beyond the page. His books have become a gateway to reading for countless children, earning praise from educators and kids alike. Through lively school presentations, he inspires young writers to embrace creativity, sharing tips on crafting stories that pop. His work fosters a love of reading at a crucial age, setting the stage for a lifetime of literary exploration.
With his books translated globally and a Nickelodeon adaptation on the horizon, McDonald’s influence in children’s literature continues to grow. His ability to connect with young readers through humor and heart ensures his stories remain timeless treasures in classrooms and homes worldwide.
About Andrew McDonald
- Born in Watsonia, Melbourne, Australia
- Key Works: Real Pigeons series, Hello Twigs series, The Greatest Blogger in the World
- Awards: Shortlisted for Australian Book Industry Awards, Readings Children’s Book Prize, YABBA, KOALA, and KROC awards
- Fun Fact: Loves baking bread but leaves no crumbs for pigeons!
Snag Real Pigeons Fight Crime and dive into Andrew McDonald’s hilarious world of feathered detectives!