A joyful new picture book by Shane Jenek (aka Courtney Act) celebrates family, flora, identity and freedom. Now on shelves, via Pantera Press.
Award-winning entertainer, advocate and author Shane Jenek, known internationally as drag icon Courtney Act, announces the release of Confetti and the Rainbow Garden, a beautifully illustrated picture book for children aged 3+.
The book builds on Courtney Act's work for child audiences voicing Ms Flouncy on popular ABC Kids show Reef School, and her appearance in a popular episode of Play School Story Time. In a political climate where events such as Drag Queen Storytime receive public backlash, this picture book is a joyous celebration of belonging, chosen family and the freedom to grow into your true self.
With lush, vibrant illustrations by First Nations artist Dylan Finney, Confetti and the Rainbow Garden invites young readers to step into Nan's magical garden, a whimsical world where kangaroo paws play soccer, water lilies dive, and lilly pillies perform playful science experiments. At the heart of this wonderland is Confetti, a curious and spirited character on a journey to discover who they might grow up to be – whether a wistful waratah, a lorikeet-laden grevillea or a frolicking fern.
"Confetti and the Rainbow Garden is deeply personal to me," Jenek reflects. "Growing up, I didn't see many stories that reflected the complexity of identity, the joy of being different, or the power of chosen family. Through Confetti's journey, I wanted to create a space where children and their families can feel seen, celebrated, and free to imagine all the ways they might grow. This book is a love letter to the beauty of self-discovery and the endless possibilities of who we can become when we embrace our true colours."
Jenek's debut in children's literature follows the success of his award-winning memoir Caught in the Act, blending his passion for storytelling, gender diversity advocacy and celebration of Australian cultures. Dylan Finney's rich and textured artwork, inspired by his heritage from the Marra, Ngalakgan, and Yanyuwa clans, brings a powerful sense of place and connection to country.
This enchanting picture book is perfect for families, educators, and anyone looking to celebrate the beauty of identity, belonging, and the natural world. Confetti and the Rainbow Garden is now available through bookstores nationwide and online via Pantera Press.
RRP: AU$22.99, NZ$24.99
About us:
ABOUT SHANE JENEK/COURTNEY ACT:
Courtney Act is a drag artist, singer, advocate, author and cultural provocateur. Her debut memoir Caught in the Act was an award-winning bestseller. Courtney hosted Sydney World Pride in 2023, is currently the co-host of Eurovision, voices Ms Flouncy on popular ABC kids show Reef School and is a regular guest on shows like Play School Story Time.
When Courtney isn't busy being glamorous on TV and stage, she's a boy from Brisbane called Shane Jenek. She currently lives in Sydney.
ABOUT DYLAN FINNEY:
Dylan Finney is an Australian-born artist and graphic designer currently living on Darkinjung Land. While his dad was born in England, he is a proud descendant of the Marra, Ngalakgan and Yanyuwa clans in Arnhem Land on his mother's side. When not exploring the local bushland, he's in the studio drawing or painting.
