A storyteller who paints with ink rather than brush or thread, crafting entire worlds with her words.

Zelma Forbes Green has been spinning bedtime stories since long before she had readers. As a former elementary teacher, she watched the way children's eyes lit up when a story slowed down just enough for them to climb inside it — and she's been chasing that light ever since.

Zelma has been writing for the past 8 years, inspired every step of the way by her daughter and her husband. What began as bedtime stories told at home has grown into a small library of books that families and classrooms everywhere now share together.

Zelma's first book series, Mr. Clock Never Waits, was inspired by her daughter, Zahara Green, who often struggled to complete her daily routines on time — whether getting ready to leave the house or settling in for bed. In an effort to encourage better time habits, Zelma created the story of a magical Mr. Clock who never waits for anyone; no matter how much he might want to.

Zahara's enthusiastic response to these imaginative stories helped bring the idea to life. What began as a simple solution at home soon evolved into a beloved book series. Now four books in, with a fifth on the way, Mr. Clock has become a familiar, tick-tocking companion to families around the world, helping children build a stronger sense of time and routine.

The Rainbow Village was inspired by a simple yet meaningful question from Zelma's six-year-old daughter, Zahara: "Mommy, why do people look so different?" From that moment, Zelma envisioned a vibrant village where every color, voice, and shape is embraced, and where each friendship adds to the beauty of the rainbow. In The Rainbow Village, when misunderstandings arise, a magical bell gently guides the villagers back to the values of kindness, respect, and empathy.

This heartfelt story was also influenced by Zelma's university lecturer, Mrs. Zahra Uswa, whose uplifting spirit and unwavering encouragement have made a lasting impact on her students. Like the character Zahra in the story, she inspires others to lead with empathy and celebrate diversity.

Zelma writes from the comfort of her home, whether in England, Charlotte, or the Turks and Caicos Islands — often surrounded by half-finished illustrations and a lukewarm cup of tea. Zahara occasionally contributes her own ideas, often suggesting what should be included in the stories.