Romy Ash

Author

Romy Ash’s debut novel Floundering, described by Robert Drewe as ‘suspenseful, tough and moving’, was shortlisted for the 2011 Vogel Award. She also writes short fiction and non-fiction that has been published in various journals and magazines.

Where were you born?

Byron Bay. My parents were hippies, of sorts, we lived in the rainforest, swum at the beach, and I didn’t wear shoes until school.

What other jobs have you had?

Waitress, Cook, Pollinator at a seed development farm – I have a very steady hand, police transcript checker, artist’s assistant. I have taught writing at The University of Melbourne for the last five years.

What themes are recurring in your work?

Relationships between siblings, family, loss, love.

What have been the highlights of your career?

The reception of Floundering. My favourite quote from Cate Kennedy, ‘Utterly convincing. These boys are so real you will lie awake worrying about them, hoping that somehow they will find their way through.’

Where have your works been published?

Floundering published by Text Publishing in Australia. I have short stories and non-fiction published in journals and magazines such as The Big Issue. Food writing published on trotski-ash.com and in Yen magazine.

What are you passionate about?

Breakfast. Reading. The ocean.