Tim Pegler

Author, Journalist, Social Commentator

Acclaimed YA author Tim Pegler is an award-winning journalist, extensively published in newspapers, magazines and online. Tim’s experience covering social issues, such as homelessness, disability and juvenile justice, provides the foundation for much of his writing for young adults.

For school visits in Victoria in 2013, Tim’s available dates are limited to Book Week (19-23 August).

What other jobs have you had?

Newspaper reporter, website editor, film reviewer, tutor, wood chopper, farm labourer, landscape gardener, rouseabout, brick cleaner… There was also a stint carrying buckets of water for a carpet-cleaning machine that was a bit like being Mickey Mouse in the Sorcerer’s Apprentice.

What themes are recurring in your work?

I’m interested in young people finding their voice and taking a stand for justice. My first two novels have been inspired by historic events (the Kelly Gang and true stories from lighthouse keepers) but I’m now working on something more futuristic.

What have been the highlights of your career?

I’ve won journalism awards from the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission and the United Nations Association of Australia. I also represented Australia on a journalism exchange in India and participated in cultural training in Arnhem Land with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission.

Where have your works been published?

“Game as Ned” was published in Australia, New Zealand and Poland and also recorded as an audio book.As a journalist I’ve been extensively published online, in magazines and in newspapers including The Age, Herald Sun, The Australian and The Weekly Times.

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

As a keen and regular reader of children’s books, I’m always happy to recommend books – particularly those I reckon will be winners with reluctant male readers. And, for the record, all the near-death experiences in Five Parts Dead are based on things that actually happened to me – mainly during my teenage years.