After 20 years, I finally found the confidence to share my little story with the world.
Miranda Priestley, author of Toby the Traffic Cone
What if the most ordinary things held the most extraordinary stories?
After much encouragement from supportive friends and family, it’s time these little cones, full of life and character, see the world!
As a child, we used to holiday in the UK, meaning I spent many hours during summer holidays in the back of the car, driving up and down the country. As an only child, I was forced to use my imagination for entertainment. I remember staring out of the car window, the hum of the car engine in my ears, watching those bright orange traffic cones stand like little soldiers on the road. Were they on a mission? Were they lost? Each cone frozen in time, with a story waiting to be told. As the UK highway introduced new colours, new arrangements and signage for these cones, it only encouraged me to set my imagination free!
Becoming a godmother two years ago was an unexpected life gift that meant the world to me. It made me reflect on the kind of world my godson would grow up in. What challenges might he face, and how can I make him feel safe, loved and special?
It was an idea that never went away. As I became a driver, I’d still make up little stories when I’d see something unexpected. Have you ever spotted a lonely cone on top of a pole or half-buried in the mud and wondered… how did it get there? Eventually, I had to give in to these questions and do something about it!
I dug out my old sketchbook and found the sketch I made at 8 years old. Back then, I would never have thought I would have cherished this piece of work quite so much!
Little did I know that a childhood fascination would spark a lifelong love for storytelling and illustration. In my day to day work, I support brands in creatively telling their story; through well-crafted messaging and visual design. Creativity has always been my compass, but this project feels like a homecoming—back to where my imagination first presented itself onto the page.
And now, after 20 years, the cones are ready to share their stories! The eight-year-old in me is cheering, and I hope these stories bring you as much joy as they’ve brought me.
Adventure awaits—are you ready?
Toby the Traffic Cone 