James Redden, Harry Hartog Picks ‘There’s a Baddie’ for Christmas

Some of our favourite local authors have some magnificent titles for Christmas. Shelly Unwin’s There’s a Baddie Running Through This Book (A&U) A&U site is so much fun to read out loud with a group of kids. It invokes those same emotions we all felt when first reading There’s a Monster at the End of this Book

A Big-Bang Announcement

(Warning – this post may contain silly space puns – I can’t resist) I am so thrilled to finally announce that my non fiction book Blast Off! has been acquired by Penguin Random House and is scheduled for launch in early 2018. Thank you to my super star agent Alex Adsett for brokering the deal. Blast Off!Continue reading “A Big-Bang Announcement”

The Curse of Jasper Rust

For the last two years I have been involved with the gifted and talented writers at my local primary school, mentoring them through the plotting, writing and editing of a chapter book. Last year I shadowed another fabulous local author, Tony Davis, who had been responsible for pulling the programme together with the school fourContinue reading “The Curse of Jasper Rust”

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 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…

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!”

The Next Generation of Authors

As I sat at my computer today reading the work of the Year Five and Year Six children that were selected for the Writing Masterclass at my local Public School last week I was blown away. Some of these kids have an astounding amount of talent. In some of the stories I read (all cappedContinue reading “The Next Generation of Authors”

Scallywags

I Just spent the most delightful morning at East Lindfield Community Pre-School. Armed with a Pirate ship and a pirate manuscript I hit the classroom for some Jolly Roger fun.                                     The kids walked the plank, scrubbed the decks andContinue reading “Scallywags”

Maurice Saxby Lecture

Last night I navigated my way through the maze of Sydney University campus to attend the Maurice Saxby Lecture. This year’s lecture was delivered by the very accomplished Libby Gleeson. After a moment to reflect on the life, work and achievement of the wonderful Maurice Saxby, Libby went on to discuss the topic of STORY.Continue reading “Maurice Saxby Lecture”