On 8th June, the Otago Literacy Association hosted an afternoon kA?rero with childrenai??i??s author and illustrator, Mere Whaanga. This provided a wonderful opportunity for early childhood and primary teachers to meet Mere and hear her talk about the inspirations for her books, including Tangaroaai??i??s Gift, an enduring favourite for kaiako and children, and her latest picture book, The Singing Dolphin. Hearing the rich context behind her stories and illustrations provided us with a deeper understanding of these, further adding to their specialness.