About Us
Willa Prawer
Hi! My name is Willa, and I am freshly a Junior at New Roads School in Santa Monica, California. I have always loved doing art, writing, performing, and having something to fixate on endlessly. So, when it came time to think of something to do for my Independent Study Project, what's better than creating a book? An ISP is an optional, individual class you can take at my school. You can pick ANY topic that interests you, and either create a long research paper, or a shorter paper + a project. I chose to make my own children's book and research how picture-print books benefit the development of children's social-emotional learning.
I have an older brother who is a Freshman in college, two awesome parents, and most importantly, two adorable dogs. I am a member of my school's girls' tennis team and enjoy spending my time by volunteering in elementary and preschool classrooms. My favorite hobby is acting and I have loved being on stage for my entire life.
I hope that my book reaches the hearts of hundreds and empowers young children to accept themselves for who they are, and the body they have. Everyone deserves to feel seen, confident, and loved.
Lisa Robbins
With over 20 years of experience as an art educator, Lisa Robins has dedicated her career to nurturing creativity in students ages 3 to 85, working with individuals of all abilities across a wide variety of media. Her classes offer a welcoming space for both beginners and experienced artists, where exploration, confidence, and self-expression come first.
Before shifting her focus to teaching, Lisa owned a successful graphic design firm serving the entertainment industry. She led major campaigns for high-profile projects including The Simpsons, King of the Hill, My Neighbor Totoro, Ice Age, and Shrek.
Lisa’s greatest joy comes from guiding students on their creative journeys—many of whom, like Willa, she has taught from preschool through high school. Her deep commitment to personal growth and artistic discovery continues to inspire generations of artists. Being part of Willa’s journey to publish her first Pesto the Mouse book has been a true honor.
Tessa Smigla
Tessa Smigla is a senior at Loyola Marymount University, majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Mathematics.
A passionate artist, she has been teaching art for many years, working with students of all ages and abilities.
Tessa is also skilled in computer graphics and has written, illustrated, and designed several children’s books. She especially enjoys working on projects that promote positive messages such as inclusiveness, self-worth, and equality.
Tessa is thrilled to be part of bringing Pesto the Mouse to life and sharing its story with the world.