Born in Queensland, Australia, Talaylin developed a love of the performing arts at an early age. She learnt piano, violin and classical singing from the age of 5. Talaylin has enjoyed playing in orchestras and bands, singing in and conducting choirs, and performing in musical theatre and drama productions throughout Australia and overseas. Her passion for music and her belief in its important role in a child’s development drew her to the teaching profession.

A humanitarian at heart, Talaylin has combined her love of music and literature to write and illustrate several children’s picture books to raise funds for children living in extreme poverty. She also participates in events that increase awareness of and support anti-slavery projects in Cambodia, Nepal and Australia.

Talaylin enjoys the challenges of long distance running including half-marathons, marathons and trail runs. She has walked the Camino de Santiago in Spain, as well as hiking the Kokoda track in Papua New Guinea.

Talaylin loves spending time with her partner Leo and their dogs, reading, composing, teaching music and hanging out with friends and family.

Child In A Manger was inspired by some of Talaylin’s fondest childhood memories of being involved in Christmas Nativity plays. Talaylin and her sisters, Kiana and Courtney loved dressing up as angels and playing Twinkle Twinkle on their violins.

The sheet music for Child In A Manger can be found at the back of this book and the song is available at Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music and YouTube Music.