Valanga's solo performance Out of Africa has toured primary and secondary schools across Australia. He was raised in Alexandra, a township in Johannesburg, and in rural Transvaal. Music, dance and storytelling were an integral part of the culture of his people in a community where many could not read or write. Sally Rippin was born in Australia but grew up in South-East Asia. She is the author and illustrator of many award-winning books including the Billie B Brown series and Angel Creek. Also by Sally Rippin: the Hey Jack! series, The Race for the Chinese Zodiac, Our Australian Girl: Meet Lina.