I teach the somewhat fantastical subject of economics to teenagers in New Zealand. My first foray into publishing were two articles describing my life as a teacher, entitled 'Enter the Dragons Den' and 'The Cow Stole my Radio'. As an amateur make-believer, I tried to bring some magic into the everyday with my two daughters when they were little, whether it was describing how automatic doors open, with magic, or in noting, when we'd driven some distance at night, that the moon had followed us home. Maggie and the Mountain of Light has been inspired by my daughter's real-life struggles with severe food allergies, asthma and anxiety, and her absolute love of GirlGuiding. Guiding allowed my daughter to participate fully in so many camps and activities, all in a safe and encouraging space. I will be forever grateful to the Girls Guides (Scouts), especially as my daughter successfully completed the Queen's Guide award, presented at a formal ceremony with the Governor-General. I thought it might be fun to explore a story featuring an anxiety riddled heroine, a touch of the fantastical, and a highly respected organisation with a hidden purpose.