Aaron Blabey

Aaron Blabey

Meet Aaron Blabey

Aaron Blabey is a phenomenal Australian author and illustrator whose vibrant stories have captured the hearts of children and adults worldwide. Best known for his wildly popular series like "Pig the Pug," "The Bad Guys," and "Thelma the Unicorn," Blabey's unique blend of humour, heart, and unforgettable characters makes his books an absolute joy to read. Readers adore his ability to craft tales that are both hilariously entertaining and surprisingly poignant.

The Story Behind the Stories

Born in Bendigo, Australia, in 1974, Aaron Blabey’s journey to becoming a beloved children's author was wonderfully unconventional. He initially carved out a successful career as an actor, even winning an Australian Film Institute Award in 1994, before transitioning to art and then finding his true calling as a "picture book maker" around 2006. His nomadic childhood, where books became a refuge, deeply influenced his storytelling, fostering a desire to create worlds that captivate young minds. Blabey's creative drive is fueled by a simple yet powerful mantra: never be boring, constantly seeking inspiration from the world around him, including his own children.

A Life in Books

Aaron Blabey's literary career truly blossomed with his debut, "Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley," published in 2007, which earned the Children's Book Council of Australia Book of the Year: Early Childhood award in 2008. His picture book "The Ghost of Miss Annabel Spoon" (2011) garnered further acclaim, winning the Patricia Wrightson Prize in 2013. However, it was the launch of his iconic "Pig the Pug" series in 2014, followed by "Thelma the Unicorn" in 2015, and the New York Times bestselling graphic novel series "The Bad Guys" in 2015, that cemented his global success. With over 50 million books in print, his work has translated into major screen adaptations, including the DreamWorks Animation film of "The Bad Guys" in 2022 and Netflix's musical adaptation of "Thelma the Unicorn" in 2024, both with Blabey serving as executive producer.

Did You Know?

  • Before becoming a celebrated author, Aaron Blabey was a successful actor, winning an Australian Film Institute Award in 1994 for his role in "The Damnation of Harvey McHugh."
  • The initial idea for his award-winning first children's book, "Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley," famously came to him in the middle of the night, prompting him to scrawl it down on a piece of toilet paper.
  • Aaron Blabey keeps a sign in his studio that simply reads "Don't be boring," a personal motto that clearly influences the dynamic and engaging nature of his stories.
  • He is a proud supporter and former ambassador for The Alannah and Madeline Foundation, an organisation dedicated to protecting children from violence.

Why Readers Love Aaron Blabey

Readers are drawn to Aaron Blabey's books because they offer a perfect blend of laugh-out-loud humour, unexpected twists, and characters that, despite their quirks, are deeply relatable. His distinctive illustration style and rhythmic storytelling create an immersive experience that resonates with both young readers and the adults sharing his books. Blabey's legacy is one of bringing genuine joy and excitement to children's literature, proving that even "bad guys" can be good. We warmly invite you to explore his fantastic collection and discover your next favourite read at BookClub.com.mt, Malta's independent online bookshop.

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Latest News

What's new with Aaron Blabey

We have some truly exciting news to share about the wonderfully imaginative Aaron Blabey! Just in time for some fantastic new reads, we're thrilled to announce the upcoming release of *The Boy Who Knew Too Much*, which is the first book in his brand-new series, *Game of Pets*. This highly anticipated adventure is set to debut on September 29th, and we also have the delightful *Pig the Pug Ears Book* arriving this September. It’s always a joy when Aaron Blabey brings fresh stories into the world, and these are sure to capture hearts and imaginations.

The buzz around *Game of Pets* is particularly thrilling, as it's part of an impressive seven-book deal with Macmillan Publishers. Even more exciting, there are already plans brewing for a film franchise based on this new series, following the incredible success of adaptations like *The Bad Guys* and *Thelma the Unicorn*. It’s clear that Aaron Blabey’s unique storytelling, filled with humour and heart, continues to resonate deeply and translate beautifully across different mediums.

Adding to the recent accolades, Aaron Blabey’s book *Busting!* was recognised as a finalist for the 2023 Wishing Shelf independent book award in England. This nomination, judged by school children themselves, is a testament to his ability to connect with young readers and create stories that truly speak to them. It’s wonderful to see his work continually celebrated for its engaging and entertaining qualities.

Have a look through their collection below — there is always something worth discovering.

Last updated September 2026.

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