About the Author

Hi, I’m Csilla, the author and illustrator of Underwater Friends A-Z! My passion for fish and the ocean began at age 3 when I caught my first fish with my dad— a colorful pumpkinseed sunfish. Though I was poked by its sharp dorsal spines and had to let it go, I was hooked (pun intended!) and knew I’d found my passion.

I didn’t see the ocean until I was 12, but by then, my fascination with underwater life had already grown. As a biologist and educator, I’ve worked and studied in places like Canada, Barbados, and the Bahamas. From tiny oyster larvae to giant sturgeon, I’ve had the privilege of encountering many incredible creatures. Along the way, I’ve also taught others about the wonders of the natural world, sharing my love for marine and aquatic biology in the classroom and beyond.

The animals in Underwater Friends A-Z are inspired by my experiences—whether I’ve worked with them, seen them in the wild, or dreamed of meeting them one day. Though I didn’t think of myself as an artist until recently, I’ve found that nature—especially the ocean—inspires my work. Whether I’m by the beach, a lake, or a river, being near or under the water (I love snorkelling and scuba) feels like home.

I believe education is a powerful tool for conservation. When we connect with animals, we’re more likely to want to protect them. The more we learn about the animals, the more we understand how to protect them.

If you’ve noticed the sea star on each page (and as my logo), that’s me! My name means “star,” and my love for the sea makes the sea star the perfect symbol of my connection to the ocean and its creatures.

I hope Underwater Friends A-Z sparks curiosity, inspires learning, and helps young readers fall in love with the world beneath the surface—just as I did when I was their age.