Emmie Builds Something New

Join Emmie, a clever inventor living in her attic kingdom, as she battles a mischievous interloper with her ingenious creations, discovering that true friendship can emerge from even the most unexpected challenges. The Rube Goldberg-meets-David Macaulay art style brings a lively energy to this comic cat-and-mouse caper

In the enchanting world of Emmie, the attic is more than just a storage space--it’s her kingdom! Surrounded by dusty forgotten treasures, Emmie is a clever inventor who transforms ordinary objects into extraordinary machines, each one a testament to her creativity and engineering prowess. But when a mischievous black-and-white cat intrudes upon her realm, Emmie must put her skills to the test. Determined to reclaim her domain, she devises increasingly inventive contraptions to outsmart her furry foe.

As she navigates this playful battle, Emmie discovers that sometimes the best solutions come from unexpected friendships. With stunning illustrations reminiscent of Rube Goldberg and David Macaulay, Emmie Builds Something New is a captivating tale that celebrates innovation, resilience, and the power of kindness.

This delightful story not only entertains but also inspires young readers, especially girls with a passion for STEM. Join Emmie on her roller-coaster journey of discovery, where every challenge is an opportunity to create, learn, and ultimately build a bridge of understanding with her newfound companion. Ultimately Emmie finds a way to coexist with the cat and discovers that empathy is the pathway to peace and friendship.

Marjorie Crosby-Fairall has published over 20 children’s books that have been named to numerous awards and reading lists, including Summer Blue by Trudie Trewin, which was a 2023 CBCA Notable book. She is the 2022 recipient of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) Don Freeman Illustration Award and SCBWI Work of Outstanding Progress Award for Emmie when it was in development. She is the regional illustrator coordinator for SCBWI Australia East and lives in Sydney, Australia, though she originally hails for the United States. Visit her at crosby-fairall.com.