Adventure, discovery, and a splash of the unexpected.
Where Rainforest Secrets and Ocean Mysteries Begin
Welcome to a world inspired by the lush Daintree Rainforest and the vibrant life of the Great Barrier Reef – where stories are shaped by nature, curiosity, and courage.
The Daintree Series
Stories Inspired by Australia’s Wild and Wonderful Places
The Daintree Series is a collection of children’s stories set between two of the world’s most remarkable natural environments – the ancient Daintree Rainforest and the vast Great Barrier Reef.
Blending imagination with real-world inspiration, each book introduces a unique creature navigating challenges of identity, belonging, and survival. Through adventure and discovery, these stories gently encourage young readers to look closer at the natural world – and at themselves.
Book 1
Crocodylus Scorpius
When a scorpion convinces a crocodile to carry him across a river, a moment of betrayal changes everything. Transformed and cast out, Crocodylus Scorpius is forced into the unknown.
He journeys into the dark depths of the ocean, where survival is uncertain, and learns that even the strangest traits can become his greatest strength.
Themes & Lessons
Big Lessons from Little Creatures
Being different is something to celebrate, because it will be your greatest strength.
Courage grows when you step into the unknown, even when it feels scary.
Nature is full of wonder, with hidden details waiting to be discovered.
Everyone has a place in the world, and finding it is part of the journey.
Book 2
Rana the Tree Frog
Deep in the Daintree Rainforest lives Rana, a bright blue frog in a world of green, who feels like she doesn’t belong. When she is suddenly taken from her home, she is left lost and afraid.
Guided by instinct and the forest around her, Rana finds her way back and discovers that her difference is something to embrace.
Meet the Author
Meet the Nature-Loving Author
Zelle is an adventurer at heart, a mother of two, and a passionate storyteller. With a background in medicine and the creative arts, she brings a unique perspective to her writing – blending scientific understanding with imaginative storytelling.
Drawing inspiration from Australia’s wilderness, Zelle creates stories that explore identity, resilience, and the beauty of the environment. Through this series, she hopes to nurture curiosity in young readers and inspire a deep connection to the natural world.
Supporting the Reef
As a quiet advocate for the natural world, Zelle is honoured to provide ongoing support to the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Her regular contributions help fund the vital research and restoration needed to keep the Reef healthy for future generations. She invites you to visit the Foundation’s website, to learn more about their mission, discover ways to get involved, and find educational activities to inspire the young explorers in your life.
Reviews
Loved by Readers and Little Explorers
Acknowledgement of Country
A Shared Effort Behind Every Story
I respectfully acknowledge the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people, the Traditional Custodians of the Daintree Rainforest, the Yirrganydji people, and the many Traditional Owner groups of the Great Barrier Reef.
For thousands of years, these lands and waters have been protected through song, story, and deep connection.
I pay my respects to Elders past and present, and I am honoured to share stories inspired by the magic of their Country.
The Blog
Stories, Discoveries & Inspiration
The Science Behind Blue Frogs
Helping Kids Connect with Nature
Creatures That Glow in the Sea
Newsletter
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