About the Book
A delightful story about following your dreams and finding where you belong! Written by Mariko Blakely, illustrated by Sally Darby.
Mariko Blakely
Author
Mariko was inspired to write Zoe’s Zebra in the wake of Sugar the Zebra stumbling into the family’s yard after being on the loose for nearly a week. What started as a passion project during maternity leave (while caring for the newest addition to the family, Baby Blake!), evolved into a first draft, and as they say, the rest is history.
Mariko is an avid gardener, outdoor enthusiast, and loves being a mom to Zoe and Blake. If not hanging out with the kids, Mariko loves skiing with her husband, Rich, and dreaming of their next adventure as a family. She is a finance geek by trade and is obsessed with the Pacific Northwest.
About the family: Rich, Mariko, Zoe and Blake consider themselves lucky to call North Bend, Washington, home. The community is warm and welcoming, and the peaceful natural beauty continually amazes them. The family loves to spend time on their hobby farm caring for their goats (Piper and Penny) and chickens (Nick, Parm + ladies). They also share their home with two cats (Gouda and Chego) and enjoy exploring the surrounding area by skiing, hiking and fishing.
Sally Darby
Illustrator
Sally is an artist passionate about infusing whimsy into her illustrations, specializing in children’s book illustration and surface pattern design. Drawing inspiration from folk art, vintage palettes, and her love for nature, Sally's vibrant work graces products worldwide, from accessories to greetings cards. Winner of the 'Tomorrows Talent' competition by the Prince’s Trust, Sally's creativity knows no bounds. In her studio, alongside her trusty schnoodle assistant, Annie, she finds solace, often drawing inspiration from nature at the zoological and botanical gardens. Beyond art, Sally delights in music, travel, theater, and crafting miniature terrarium gardens. However, her true joy lies in the tranquility of outdoor creativity, where she constantly envisions new characters and themes for her enchanting illustrations.
Previous clients include: UNICEF, BBC animation prop making for Arthur Cox Animation, Fatface, Noel Tatt, Nigel Quiney, Design Group Americas, P&B TEXTILES, Owlet Press, THE ORIGINAL POSTER COMPANY, https://www.stupellind.com/, Good Cause Greetings, Henderson greetings.com, Sweet Cherry Publishing, Pictura Sarl, Abacus, Heart Research UK.
Fun Facts The real Zebra Escape
Based on a true story about a zebra that got loose in North Bend, Washington, Zoe’s Zebra is a story about following your dreams and finding a special place to call home.
...So a zebra really got loose in North Bend, WA?
Yes! Four zebras got loose on Sunday, April 28th, 2024 by exit 32 off I90. While three of the zebras were quickly corralled by a rodeo clown, Sugar the Zebra was missing for almost a week!
More about the book and the TRUE Story!
🚗 A Wild Chase! Sugar the zebra wandered onto busy roads, dodged cars, and even had police officers trying to guide it back to safety.
🌲 Lost in the Wilderness! For days, the zebra explored the forests and streets of North Bend, looking for a way home.
🎨 Brought to Life! Illustrator Sally Darby added extra charm and silliness to Sugar’s journey, making every page a delight to explore.
🤠 Corralled by a Cowboy! Former rodeo clown David Danton jumped into action to help gather the loose zebras.
👧 Zoe Meets Zebra! Sugar wandered onto the family's property, where she met their two goats, Penny and Piper!
