My Social Media Playground

I’ve just signed up for a 30-day social media challenge for authors. And through the initial discussions it has occurred to me that social media can be very much likened to a playground (particularly by me – as I write children’s books, it’s a totally fitting analogy!) So there’s:   The slide– You climb toContinue reading “My Social Media Playground”

Jasper Rust Book Launch

After a huge effort throughout term three and early term four, we are thrilled to launch Volume 4 of The Lyrebird Chronicles – The Curse of Jasper Rust. A novel written by 6 gifted writers at Lindfield East Public School and illustrated by 4 talented artist. It has been such a pleasure to mentor suchContinue reading “Jasper Rust Book Launch”

In the Room with Aussie Greatness

Gleebooks in Glebe brought together some of Australia’s finest Young Adult Writing talent last night for what turned out to be a very humorous and enjoyable panel discussion.  Melina Marchetta, Erin Gough, Will Kostakis and  Chris Morphew were chaired by Felicity Castagna and discussed a range of topics pertinent to the current YA market. OneContinue reading “In the Room with Aussie Greatness”

Truth and Vulnerability

At the Writers Unleashed festival last weekend, I sat bolted to my chair as Trinity Doyle shared with us her insights on dealing with emotions in Young Adult literature. She highlighted the importance of Truth and Vulnerability in our work. “Nobody is going to connect with ‘I’m fine’” she said. And she’s absolutely right. TeenagersContinue reading “Truth and Vulnerability”

The inside word from Penguin, Random and Panterra

Saturday was the highlight of the Southerland Shire Writers calendar with the Writers Unleashed Festival providing the opportunity to hear from editors from various publishing houses. The event concluded with the Editor panel where we heard from: Heather Curdie, Children’s at Penguin. Beverley Cousins Adult Fiction Random House. Zoe Walton, Children’s at Random House, andContinue reading “The inside word from Penguin, Random and Panterra”

Have you got an illustrator? Yessss!!!

It’s the question I have been asked over and over for the last 6 months and been dying to divulge the answer to. I can finally tell the world, with so much excitement, that the brilliantly talented Katherine Battersby, Author/Illustrator of the awesome Squish Rabbit series has agreed to illustrate the series. My fabulous publisher, Anna McFarlaneContinue reading “Have you got an illustrator? Yessss!!!”

The Rise and Rise of Shelly Unwin Part 3

Originally posted on Just Write For Kids Blog:
Today is the last interview with Shelly Unwin in which we look at some of the ‘nuts and bolts’ of her steps to her publishing dream. They include practical advice for anyone who is interested in getting published. The things that impress me loud and clear from…

The Rise and Rise of Shelly Unwin Part 2

Here is part two of my Just Write For Kids interview. It includes why I signed with my literary agent Alex Adsett and also how I chose Allen & Unwin as the home for my upcoming Picture Book Series. Source: The Rise and Rise of Shelly Unwin Part 2 The Rise and Rise of ShellyContinue reading “The Rise and Rise of Shelly Unwin Part 2”

Lothian looking for Junior Fiction

It is always good to get an insiders view on the publishing industry and this morning was no exception, with the delightful Suzanne O’Sullivan from Lothian sharing her thoughts at the NSW Writers’ Centre, First Friday Club. Suzanne confirmed that with blockbuster titles from the likes of John Green helping the market along, children’s book salesContinue reading “Lothian looking for Junior Fiction”

Signed, Sealed and so excited!

Finally I can announce my exciting news! I have been offered and accepted a publishing contract for a five book picture book series with Allen & Unwin. It is a dream come true. I couldn’t be happier and I couldn’t have found a more passionate, consultative or engaged publisher for this series. I am beyondContinue reading “Signed, Sealed and so excited!”