Justin D'Ath

Author

Justin D’Ath is the author of over thirty books for children and young adults, but is best known for his hugely successful Extreme Adventure series, which are particularly popular with boys and reluctant readers.

Where were you born?

I was born in a small town in New Zealand and grew up on a farm, before moving to Australia at 17. I now live in Queenscliff, Victoria.

What other jobs have you had?

When I first came to Australia I studied to be a missionary priest. But I gave up after three years and travelled around Australia doing various jobs – on farms, in factories, in sugar mills, in an iron mine and picking fruit. For many years I taught professional writing at TAFE before becoming a full time author.

What have been the highlights of your career?

Getting emails from parents thanking me for introducing their reluctant reader sons to the joys of books.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about the environment and wildlife.

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

I lost my house in the Black Saturday bushfires and now live near the sea (and am worried about tsunamis!).