Olivia Pillai Quinney is an Ontario-based writer, elementary school teacher, and mental health advocate. Her debut middle-grade novel, Catch, Drive, Release and Recover, published by Cormorant Books’ children’s imprint, DCB, explores identity, family dynamics, mental health, and eating-disorder recovery through the story of a fourteen-year-old girl navigating adolescence and the search for belonging.
A recipient of the We Need Diverse Books Middle Grade Novel Mentorship, Olivia brings her experience in education and youth work to stories that encourage empathy, resilience, and self-understanding. She has presented her work to educators and students through the FOLD Kids Book Fest, including programming on digital media literacy, and a presentation for educators on presenting her book in a trauma informed manor.
Her novel was featured in the October issue of BANA Magazine, highlighting its relevance to eating-disorder awareness and recovery. Olivia also serves on the board of the National Initiative for Eating Disorders (NIED), contributing to efforts to improve eating-disorder awareness and education.
Drawing on her multicultural family background and extensive experience working with young people, Olivia is passionate about creating thoughtful, inclusive stories that help young readers feel seen and encourage meaningful conversations about mental health, identity, and recovery. Olivia also serves on the Board of Directors for the National Initiative for Eating Disorders.
