Pip Harry

Where were you born?

In Melbourne, Australia before moving with my family to the USA and Singapore! I now live on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. 

What other jobs have you had?

Pool lifeguard, rowing coach, check out operator, nanny, swimming teacher, celebrity reporter, travel journalist, university lecturer, columnist, copywriter…most of my jobs have in some way involved storytelling or working with kids and teens.

What themes are recurring in your work?

Kindness pops up in almost all my books, as well as resilience, courage, friendship, family, overcoming adversity, and community. I also love to write about sport as I’ve been a competitive swimmer, rower and water polo player.  

What have been the highlights of your career?

Winning the CBCA Book of the Year for The Little Wave was a pinch me moment as it represented years of hard work. The medal arrived via post on Christmas Eve, and it was the best Christmas present I’ve ever received. I take it to schools to show kids that you can be a gold medalist for writing, not just winning races or matches! Another highlight was having my books made into braille and audio versions for greater accessibility. 

Where have your works been published?

As well as Australia and New Zealand, they have been published in the UK, Iran and Russia. 

What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about the power and magic of reading and inspiring all young people to tell their own stories – through prose, poetry, verse, illustration. Everyone has a story to tell! I’m also super into swimming and regularly compete in ocean water races. 

Haven’t I seen you before?

Possibly…I was once a contestant on Deal or No Deal. 

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

You can find me sharing pictures of my dog and the beach on Instagram If I’m on there too much, tell me to go and read a book!