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Asphyxia is the author of the magical new series, The Grimstones. She is an experienced motivational speaker and loves to inspire people to be more creative and open-minded. She handcrafted her Grimstone family of puppets and their world from upcycled junk, and has since toured the world with the acclaimed, award winning theatre show, The Grimstones. Now Asphyxia is ready to inspire students to create their own miniature worlds from ordinary household rubbish.
» Read more about Asphyxia .Victoria
Deb Abela is an ambitious author, with an impressive output of twenty books in ten years. Her dedication to her craft, and sharing it with students across Australia, earned her the role of National Literacy Ambassador for 2010.
Deb Abela will tour Melbourne schools with Booked Out, in Library Week (20–24 May) 2013.
» Read more about Deborah AbelaNew South Wales
Steven Amsterdam has been writing for decades, producing everything from speeches for the Tokyo Auto Show to little artsy dance reviews in free weeklies. His most recent book, What the Family Needed (Sleepers, 11/2011) was a chosen as a Great Read by Women’s Weekly. Already the book has been called “exhilarating” by The Australian and “strange and marvellous territory” by The Monthly. His first book, Things We Didn’t See Coming won The Age Book of the Year, was longlisted for The Guardian First Book Award, and has been printed to acclaim in the US and the UK this year, with French and Dutch editions. It has been selected for the VCE reading list for 2011 and 2012. He works as a palliative care nurse on some days and works on his next book on other days.
» Read more about Steven AmsterdamVictoria
Felice Arena is one of Australia’s much-loved writers for kids. He is the author of many best-selling and award-winning books, including Wish, the Boyz Rule stories, the hilarious Farticus Maximus and the hugely popular Specky Magee series, co-written with old school mate and football legend Garry Lyon.
Felice is proud to be one of the ambassadors for the National Year of Reading 2012 program and the Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge.
» Read more about Felice ArenaVictoria
Kerry Argent is one of Australia’s finest and most highly acclaimed illustrators. Her first picture book, One Woolly Wombat was published while she was still at art school and went on to become an international bestseller. For over a decade, Kerry combined illustrating books with her job as Art Director at Omnibus Books in Adelaide. She now illustrates full time and works on texts of her own, like India the Show-Stopper, as well as continuing to collaborate with Australia’s best known picture book writers, including Margaret Wild (Ruby Roars).
» Read more about Kerry ArgentQueensland
Venero has been running writing courses and short workshops with children, teenagers and adults for more than ten years. He teaches in schools, community groups and universities, and brings an innovative approach to all his classes by combining interests in stories, novels, films and songs. Veny’s classes are very loud, passionate and laugh-out-loud funny. In a fun and participative environment that emphasises quick wits and play, students learn a lot about themselves and the things they like, sometimes without even realising it!
» Read more about Venero ArmannoQueensland
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.
» Read more about Romy AshVictoria
Clue by clue, chapter by chapter, David Astle’s Puzzled meanders through the maze of a cryptic crossword, showing you the dark secrets and wondrous tricks of wordplay. ‘He’s the Sergeant Pepper of cryptic crosswords,’ says award-winning Australian actor Geoffrey Rush.
» Read more about David AstleVictoria
Hilary is the author of the Space Scout series, which follows the adventures of Kip Kirby, an intrepid space explorer. Hilary’s alter-ego is H.I. Larry, the mysterious author of the popular Zac Power series.
» Read more about Hilary BadgerVictoria
Tim Baker is Australia’s favourite surfing writer, a former editor of Tracks and Surfing Life magazine, who has written a string of best-selling surfing biographies and collected surf stories. He has twice received the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame Culture Award and been shortlisted for the CUB Australian Sports Writing Awards.
» Read more about Tim BakerQueensland
Tristan Bancks tells stories for the page and screen. His background is in acting and filmmaking. His most recent books are Galactic Adventures, First Kids in Space (UQP) and My Life and Other Stuff I Made Up (Random House).
In 2013, Tristan will tour Melbourne schools from 12-16 August. He will also travel for international schools in late 2013/early 2013—contact us for details.
» Read more about Tristan BancksNew South Wales
Anna Barnes is an award winning writer and playwright. Her plays and monologues have been performed around Australia and in 2011 she was Red Stitch Actors Theatre’s writer-in-residence (VIC). In 2012 her first book, a non-fiction book for girls, Girl! The Ultimate Guide to Being You, was published by Penguin Australia.
» Read more about Anna BarnesVictoria
Max Barry is an Australian who pretended to sell high-end computer systems for Hewlett-Packard while secretly writing his first novel, Syrup. In fact, he still has the laptop he wrote it on because HP forgot to ask for it back, but keep that to yourself. He went on to publish Jennifer Government and Company. His fourth book, Machine Man, is due in 2011 and is based on a real-time interactive serial Max wrote and delivered online one page per day.
» Read more about Max BarryVictoria
Myke Bartlett is a journalist and critic whose debut novel, Fire In The Sea, won the 2011 Text Prize. When not writing fiction, Myke writes on politics, movies, pop culture and rock music. His work has been published in The Age, Dumbo Feather, Overland, Triple J Magazine, Metro, Cream Magazine and The Big Issue, among others.
» Read more about Myke BartlettVictoria
Catherine Bateson has won the CBCA Book of the Year for Younger Readers twice and received three Honour Book Awards, including one for Older Readers. She teaches in the Professional Writing and Editing course at TAFE but is also available for school visits, to talk about both fiction writing and poetry.
» Read more about Catherine BatesonVictoria
Katherine is a children’s writer and illustrator whose first picture book, Squish Rabbit, is published in Australia, the US, China and beyond. Squish Rabbit, which The New York Times says “is bound to win children’s hearts”, is shortlisted for the 2012 Crichton Award and is also a Notable Book in the CBCA Book of the Year Awards. In September 2012, the adorable bunny returns in Brave Squish Rabbit.
» Read more about Katherine BattersbyQueensland
Michael Gerard Bauer is an in-demand speaker and a popular writer for children and young adults. His books have been shortlisted, won numerous awards and are used as class texts in many schools around Australia. He has written drama, comedy and adventure.
Michael will be available to Brisbane schools in Book Week from 19-23 August 2013. Michael will tour Melbourne schools from 12-16 August 2013. Additional Melbourne dates may be added according to demand.
» Read more about Michael Gerard BauerQueensland
Jon Bauer is the author of short stories, and plays for stage and radio. His work has been published in The Daily Telegraph, The Sleepers Almanac and The Bridport Prize, as well as broadcast on national radio. Rocks in the Belly is his first novel.
» Read more about Jon BauerVictoria
Rachel Berger is one of Australia’s most highly regarded, adept, and adaptive comedic talents, working variously as a broadcaster, comic, novelist, columnist, agitator and television entertainer. Rachel’s dynamic presence and engagingly sharp observations have made her an extremely popular performer both live and on television, across Australia and overseas.
» Read more about Rachel BergerVictoria
Lola Berry’s Inspiring Ingredients is a renown health and cook book aimed to inspire you to control weight, boost energy and love food.
» Read more about Lola BerryVictoria
Amanda (AJ) Betts is an award-winning author, teacher and cyclist, living in Perth. Her upcoming novel ‘Zac and Mia’ won the 2012 Text Prize for best unpublished manuscript.
» Read more about Amanda BettsWestern Australia
Steve will be presenting at events in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne in 2012.
Psychologist Steve Biddulph realised that males were in crisis at a time when it was fashionable to ignore their needs. He blitzed schools and communities around the globe with engaging, practical and moving seminars, facilitating a cultural shift which is still in motion. His parenting books, including Raising Boys and Manhood, are now in four million homes and twenty seven languages.
» Read more about Steve BiddulphTasmania
Tony Birch is a writer of short fiction, novels and essays. He is also an educator and teacher of writing and history.
» Read more about Tony BirchVictoria
Steph Bowe is an eighteen-year-old YA author and blogger. Her debut novel, Girl Saves Boy was published in 2010 when she was just sixteen and in 2013 she will release her second novel All This Could End. She lives on the Gold Coast with her family and writes a blog called Hey! Teenager of the Year.
» Read more about Steph BoweQueensland
Lorette Broekstra writes and illustrates children’s picture books. She wrote and illustrated the best selling Baby Bear and Hugo series.
» Read more about Lorette BroesktraVictoria
Described as ‘Australia’s best known academic’ by ABC radio and a ‘celebrity academic’ by other media, Karen lectures on the areas of youth, sexuality and popular culture using a psychoanalytical model. Karen has also worked as a professional actress, a children’s playwright, an Army Officer in the Royal Australian Army Survey Corp, a checkout-chick, an assessment clerk with the NRMA, a waitress, a dress-boutique manager, a theatre director, a wife (twice), and a mother (twice over too!).
» Read more about Dr Karen BrooksQueensland
Kevin trained in illustration, inspired by Alfred Hitchcock and Bugs Bunny to tell the story with pictures! His writing debut came with B is for Bravo, a dramatic picture book about Australian aviation illustrated using 3D (grab your glasses!) dioramas made from recycled stuff. He loves telling Australian stories and giving inspirational workshops, where he is often heard saying: “There’s nothing you can’t do on paper!”
» Read more about Kevin BurgemeestreVictoria
J.C. Burke was born in Sydney in 1965, the fourth of five sisters. With writers for parents, she grew up in a world of noise, drama and books, but she decided to become a nurse after her mother lost a long battle with cancer. Since Burke started writing in 1999, she has published a number of acclaimed books for teenagers and young adults, including Children’s Book Council Notable Books WHITE LIES and THE RED CARDIGAN, Aurealis Awards finalist NINE LETTERS LONG, THE STORY OF TOM BRENNAN, FAKING SWEET, STARFISH SISTERS and OCEAN PEARL. THE STORY OF TOM BRENNAN won the 2006 CBC Book of the Year – Older Readers and the 2006 Australian Family Therapists Award for Children’s Literature. It is currently on the NSW HSC syllabus list. Jane lives on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and is married with two children.
» Read more about JC BurkeNew South Wales
Lauren Burns OAM, Naturopath, Nutritionist, Herbalist (BHSc) Olympic Gold Medallist, Taekwondo Sydney 2000
Lauren Burns created sporting history by winning the first Olympic gold medal for Taekwondo when the sport made its debut at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. The nation watched as Lauren’s victory brought the Australian public and Olympic crowd to its feet. Before her Olympic win, few people knew that Lauren had been 12 times Australian Champion and had achieved a string of international titles including numerous medals at world championship level.
» Read more about Lauren BurnsVictoria
Thomas Caldwell is a freelance writer, broadcaster and public speaker who specialises in film criticism and educational writing on film. He is the author of the secondary school textbook Film Analysis Handbook, he writes the film criticism blog Cinema Autopsy and he reviews films for the Breakfasters on Melbourne independent community radio station Triple R (3RRR 102.7FM). He also co-hosts the Triple R film criticism podcast Plato’s Cave, regularly reviews films for The Big Issue and is one of the film and television columnists for Killings, the Kill Your Darlings blog.
» Read more about Thomas CaldwellVictoria
Bernard Caleo is a performer, comic book maker, and comic book communicator.
» Read more about Bernard CaleoVictoria
Paul Callaghan has worked in game development for over 10 years as a programmer, designer, teacher, and writer. His interests include games and literacy, storytelling, design, and intersection of learning and play and creative expression through interaction.
» Read more about Paul CallaghanVictoria
Dr Leslie Cannold is an author, commentator, ethicist and activist. Her books include the award-winning The Abortion Myth and What, No Baby? which made the Australian Financial Review’s top 101 books list. Her first novel, The Book of Rachael was published in 2011 by Text. Leslie is often noted as one of Australia’s leading thinkers. In 2005 she was listed alongside Professor Peter Singer, Professor Gustav Nossal and Inga Clendinnen as one of Australia’s top 20 public intellectuals. In 2011 she was named Australian Humanist of the Year.
» Read more about Dr Leslie CannoldVictoria
Fiona Capp is the internationally published author of three works of non-fiction including That Oceanic Feeling, a memoir about her love for the sea and surfing. She is also the author of three novels – Night Surfing, Last of the Sane Days and Musk & Byrne. Her most recent book is part memoir, part journey through the landscapes which inspired Australian poet Judith Wright, My Blood’s Country.
» Read more about Fiona CappVictoria
Deborah Carlyon is a talented writer and versatile speaker. Her work forms a bridge between two cultures. Her books have sensitivity, depth, heart, humour, and a soulful, healing imagery.
» Read more about Deborah CarlyonQueensland
Isobelle Carmody is one of Australia’s most highly regarded and prominent authors of fantasy for young adult readers. A consummate and much-loved storyteller, Isobelle has a host of award-winning novels to her credit, including The Obernewton Chronicles and The Legend of Little Fur series. Her latest books are The Red Wind and a collaborative collection of short stories based on fairy tales, with Nan Mc Nab, The Wilful Eye.
Isobelle will be returning briefly to Australia in August 2013. She will available for bookings in Melbourne from 14–16 August. It is unlikely additional dates will be added, so register your interest as soon as possible.
» Read more about Isobelle CarmodyVictoria
Jane Caro is an author, novelist, award winning advertising writer and political/social commentator. She is a funny, warm and engaging speaker in high demand both on podiums and on radio and TV for her straight – talking style. She is passionate about connecting with people through words – whether spoken, written or broadcast and loves to tell a story.
» Read more about Jane CaroNew South Wales
Paul’s novel Eleven Seasons won the 2012 Australian/Vogel’s Award. He has a keen interest in the experience of contemporary adolescence and its connections with popular culture, as is reflected in his work.
» Read more about Paul CarterVictoria
Mark Carthew is an award winning editor and children’s author well known for his many books and series exploring wordplay, music, movement, drama, jokes, rhymes and riddles! Mark’s recent picture book The Gobbling Tree was a winner of the Speech Pathology Australia’s Book of the Year.
» Read more about Mark CarthewVictoria
Ben Chandler is the author of the YA fantasy series Voyages of the Flying Dragon. He holds a PhD in Creative Writing and has published work on popular culture, video game narrative theory, Japanese heroism, anime & manga, and creative writing pedagogy. Ben loves heroes, villains, comic books and video games, and he believes you can learn more from watching cartoons than you can from the news.
» Read more about Ben ChandlerSouth Australia
Gaye Chapman is an artist and performer who uses drama, ‘right-brain’ thinking and synaesthesia ‘games’ as teaching tools in her dynamic art workshops and talks.
Gaye is a visual artist of international standing and is one of the most significant painters working in Australia today. She holds a PhD in Contemporary Art and has been exhibiting since 1976, her comprehensive body of work critically acclaimed. Gaye’s work with progressive writers, along with her own writing, has also established her as an innovator of contemporary children’s picture books with over 10 titles to her name.
An inspiring and versatile teaching artist and presenter, with extensive experience giving workshops and talks across Australia, Gaye’s experimental and highly interactive sessions are both educational and fun.
» Read more about Gaye ChapmanNew South Wales
Victoria
Anna Ciddor has written and illustrated over 50 books on topics as diverse as Vikings, travel, toilets and Australian history. She is best known for her highly popular Viking Magic trilogy Runestone, Wolfspell and Stormriders.
» Read more about Anna CiddorVictoria
Sherryl Clark writes stories for all ages – from picture books to verse novels and novels for middle/older readers. She loves inventing characters and doing research, and then weaving the amazing things she discovers into all kinds of stories.
» Read more about Sherryl ClarkVictoria
Jane Clifton is the genuine show-business all-rounder. Actress, singer and, more recently, published crime novelist, Jane is often asked if there is anything she can’t do, to which she simply replies ‘Ballet and making money.’
» Read more about Jane CliftonVictoria
Danielle Clode is a zoologist and natural history writer. She also teaches professional and creative writing.
» Read more about Danielle ClodeSouth Australia
Victoria
Kate Constable is the author of the acclaimed and internationally published fantasy trilogy, The Chanters of Tremaris. She has also written three realist books for teenagers as part of the highly successful Girlfriend Fiction series. Her recent fantasy for younger readers, Cicada Summer, has been short listed for the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards and Crow Country won the CBCA Book of the Year (Younger Readers) in 2012.
» Read more about Kate ConstableVictoria
Cath Crowley is the author of the Gracie Faltrain trilogy, Chasing Charlie Duskin, Graffiti Moon and Rosie Staples’ Minor Magical Misunderstanding.
For school visits in Victoria in 2013, Cath’s available dates are limited to Book Week (19-23 August).
» Read more about Cath CrowleyVictoria
Sophie Cunningham worked in publishing for twenty years before becoming the Chair of the Literature Board of the Australia Council. She is well known for her work as the editor of Meanjin, and is the author of two novels, Geography (2004) and Bird (2008) as well as the non-fiction Melbourne.
» Read more about Sophie CunninghamVictoria
Chris Daffey worked as a lawyer for a number of years before going part-time to pursue other interests, including writing. A Girl, a Smock and a Simple Plan is a lighthearted memoir chronicling his journey through the final year at primary school as he plans to win over the girl of his dreams.
» Read more about Chris DaffeyVictoria
John Danalis has been writing and illustrating for children and young adults for ten years. His works include picture books, chapter books and non-fiction.
In 2013, John will tour Melbourne schools in Book Week (19-23 August).
» Read more about John DanalisQueensland
Gregory Day is a writer, poet and musician whose debut novel The Patron Saint Of Eels won the prestigious Australian Literature Society Gold Medal in 2006.
» Read more about Gregory DayVictoria
Hanifa Deen is an award-winning author and social commentator with extensive public speaking experience: Audiences around Australia, at writers’ festivals, conferences, seminars and debates have heard her speak on a range of topical and literary subjects.
An ex-English literature teacher, Hanifa can also guide secondary students to a better understanding of Australian curriculum themes of Identity, Belonging and Australian history. Her aim is to inform and entertain.
» Read more about Hanifa DeenVictoria
Sue deGennaro is an author and an illustrator. She has illustrated seven picture books, and is the author and illustrator of The Pros and Cons of Being A Frog (shortlist for the CBCA 2013 Early Childhood Prize). Her most recent illustrated book is Max & George by Cori Brooke (Penguin, 2013). Sue’s illustrations are quirky and infectiously funny. Sue has worked in many careers (including confectionery, circuses and home renovations!), and now (between making books) she often teachers writing & illustration.
» Read more about Sue deGennaroVictoria
Mary is a writer, award winning ABC Journalist and former Education Minister. She is National Director of Writing Australia and Chair of Orchestra Victoria. She was the first female solo prime time TV newsreader in Victoria, and the first female Planning Minister in Victoria.
» Read more about Mary DelahuntyVictoria
Terry Denton is best known for the Gasp! series, the Wombat and Fox stories and the best selling Just! books, done in collaboration with Andy Griffiths. He is one of those lucky people who can write and illustrate. He has written twenty children’s books himself and collaborated on eighty more with some of the most popular children’s authors in Australia.
» Read more about Terry DentonVictoria
Catherine Deveny is a comedy writer, comedian, author, social commentator and broadcaster well known for her work as a columnist with The Age and as an ABC regular. Deveny has been named in the Top 100 Most Influential Melbournians. She is an atheist and (along with two of her sons) dyslexic. Her extensive charity and community work includes the Asylum Seeker’s Resource Centre, Homelessness and Broken Rites. She is a proud ambassador for Dying With Dignity Victoria, International Day of People with Disability, and the Patron (alongside Father Bob) of Griefline. Catherine was also one of the founding members of Friends of Public Housing.
» Read more about Catherine DevenyVictoria
Paul Dillon has a unique investment in the wellbeing of young people. Founder of Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia and a former school teacher, Paul continues to conduct drug information sessions and workshops for school students across Australia and internationally, in countries as diverse as the UK, the Phillipines, and Indonesia.
» Read more about Paul DillonNew South Wales
Mark Dobson is a performance coach that advises some of the most elite athletes on the planet. He was a founding member of New York City’s first University for talented teenagers which was acknowledged by President Barack Obama for its educational innovation. He is a captivating and entertaining speaker that offers very strategic advice on performing at your best.
Mark will take expressions of interest for student welfare/development days with schools in Western Australia and other states in 2012.
» Read more about Mark DobsonVictoria
Sean Dooley is a Melbourne author who has worked as a television comedy writer. He is a contributor to The Age, ABC radio and 3RRR, writing and talking about birds, environmental issues, sport and, well, anything, really. But his greatest claim to fame is that in 2002 he broke the Australian birdwatching record for seeing the most species in the one year. He then wrote about it in The Big Twitch, thereby publicly outing himself as a bird-nerd.
» Read more about Sean DooleyVictoria
Daniel Ducrou’s first novel, The Byron Journals (Text Publishing, 2010), tells the story of an eighteen-year-old classical musician from Adelaide who goes off the rails on a schoolies trip to Byron Bay.
» Read more about Daniel DucrouVictoria
Kylie Dunstan is an award winning author and illustrator of children’s picture books. Her first book Collecting Colour won CBCA Picture Book of the Year in 2009. She has since written and illustrated two more books and is working on her fourth.
» Read more about Kylie DunstanVictoria
Nick Earls is the author of twelve novels and two collections of short stories. Two of his novels have been adapted into feature films, and five have become stage plays.
» Read more about Nick EarlsQueensland
Meyer has written over fourteen books and published a number of others as the publishing coordinator of the St Kilda Historical Society. All the books deal with the natural, cultural and social history of Melbourne. He is the founder of Melbourne Walks, which uses the performative and engaging format of a walking tour to impart social, cultural and historical knowledge.
» Read more about Meyer EidelsonVictoria
Born in rural Wisconsin, Amy Espeseth immigrated to Australia in the late 1990s and lives in Melbourne. A writer, publisher and academic, Amy lectures in both writing and publishing at NMIT.
» Read more about Amy EspesethVictoria
Brian is a highly sought -after speaker in schools, and at literary festivals and conferences. His infectious enthusiasm, humour and energy make every appearance a popular and memorable one. His talks cover everything from tips for budding writers, to inspiration for reluctant readers, to small drops of wisdom on life, the universe and everything in between, in a visual, irreverent and highly entertaining way. His workshops provide practical guidance for student writers on the process of creating a story, and his Story Sports™ Tournaments will get the most reluctant writers champing at the bit to write!
» Read more about Brian FalknerQueensland
Declan Fay is one of Australia’s leading comedy writers and motivational speakers. He has performed at the Comedy festival, The fringe Festival and written for some of the best (and worst) television shows. He has spoken at over 600 different schools around Australia. He has never been pelted with fruit, although his dad once threw a Whopper with cheese at him for talking during the Bill.
Declan will take expressions of interest for student welfare/development days with schools in Western Australia and other states in 2012.
» Read more about Declan FayVictoria
Corinne Fenton has a passion for picture books, especially those that have a connection with history. Her picture books are read by four to ninety-four year olds.
» Read more about Corinne FentonVictoria
An ex professional tennis player and teacher, Pat Flynn writes realistic fiction with a dose of humour for 8-16 year olds. His book The Tuckshop Kid won an Honour Book Prize at the CBCA Book of the Year Awards and his new books include The Trophy Kid and How to Get Dumped.
In 2013, Pat Flynn will tour Melbourne schools in Literacy Week (26-30 August). He will be available for Brisbane schools by enquiry.
» Read more about Pat FlynnQueensland
Adam Ford is a poet, novelist and short storialist who also makes zines and draws comics. He lives in Chewton, in Central Victoria.
» Read more about Adam FordVictoria
Arabella Forge is an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD), television presenter and food writer. She is the author of the cookbook Frugavore: How to Grow Your Own, Buy Local, Waste Nothing and Eat Well (Black Inc 2010) which has been published and distributed throughout Australia and the USA. Arabella presents a regular segment on food and gardening for Channel 10’s Love to Share Food and is a spokesperson for The Markets of Melbourne.
» Read more about Arabella ForgeVictoria
Lee Fox writes hilarious stories in rollicking rhyme about the things children do not like doing. She cleverly disguises literacy concepts in her stories so that young readers don’t even know they are learning.
» Read more about Lee FoxVictoria
Jackie French’s writing career spans 17 years, 48 wombats, 132 books, 23 languages, 3,721 bush rats, over 50 awards in Australia and overseas, 6 possibly insane lyrebirds and assorted ‘Burke’s Backyard’ segments, radio shows, newspaper and magazine columns.
» Read more about Jackie FrenchAustralian Capital Territory
Archie is one of the most in-demand and successful presenters of author talks and workshops in Australia. Archie’s versatility means he can communicate to, and cater for, a range of abilities and interests. The fact that he was a teacher and features writer probably helps.
Archie is in demand for residencies across the country. Contact Booked Out to organise a residency for your school or library, or to discuss arranging a booking for a network of schools in your area.
» Read more about Archie FusilloVictoria
Scot Gardner came to writing via counseling and youth work. His thirteen novels range from absurd fantasy for children to gritty realism and tragic-comedy for young adults.
Scot will tour Western Australia for Booked Out from 25-29 March 2013 and then again from 14–18 October 2013. He will available for Perth bookings, but is also open to traveling further afield if requested.
» Read more about Scot GardnerVictoria
Ghostboy is one of Australia’s premier young adult and children’s spoken word presenters.
He has hosted workshops, performances, talks and poetry slams to wide acclaim from students & teachers at the likes of Voices on the Coast, Whitsunday Voices, Somerset Writers Festival, and Brisbane Writers Festival’s WordPlay.
A live hybrid of performance poetry, spoken weird theatre and surrealist vaudeville Ghostboy has been a hit at many major festivals including Brisbane Writers, Sydney Writers, Byron Bay Writers, Tasmanian Poetry, Broken Hill Poetry, Woodford Folk Festival, and QLD Poetry Festivals.
Ghostboy is the world’s only vaguely legal “literary cannibal”.
Ghostboy will tour schools in South Australia in March 2012
» Read more about David Stavanger: GhostboyQueensland
Giulia Giuffre is the author of Primavera, an Australian-Italian memoir of childhood and family in the second half of the 20th Century. It has been described as an ‘exuberant, bittersweet encyclopaedia of life in general’.
» Read more about Giulia GiuffreNew South Wales
Morris is one of Australia’s most successful authors. He was born in England and emigrated to Australia in 1969 so he could escape from school and become a Very Famous Writer. Before realising that dream, he had a colourful career as a paperboy, department store Santa Claus and chicken defroster. Morris is the author of some of Australia’s favourite children’s books, including Two Weeks with the Queen, Boy Overboard, Once, Then, and Grace.
» Read more about Morris GleitzmanVictoria
Jane Godwin is the Publisher, Books for Children and Young Adults, at Penguin Books Australia. She is also a highly acclaimed author of many books for children.
» Read more about Jane GodwinVictoria
Anna Goldsworthy is a prize-winning classical pianist and writer. She an engaging speaker and performer, and is passionate about bringing the lessons of classical music to the widest possible audience. She is Artist Director of the Port Fairy Spring Music Festival.
» Read more about Anna GoldsworthySouth Australia
Peter Goldsworthy grew up in various country towns, finishing his schooling in Darwin, which was the site of his first novel, Maestro. He graduated in medicine from the University of Adelaide in 1974 and now devotes his time equally to medicine and writing.
» Read more about Peter GoldsworthySouth Australia
Queensland
Gus Gordon is a children’s book author and illustrator. He has written and illustrated over 70 books for children. His most recent picture book, Wendy (Penguin), about a motorcycle riding stunt chicken, was selected as a CBCA Notable Book in the 2010 Book of the Year Awards. His newest picture book, Herman and Rosie (Penguin, Sep 2012), will be released in 2013 in the US.
Gus has always been attracted to drawing and writing about animals in human roles. This most likely stems from a long love of Kenneth Grahame’s Wind in The Willows. Gus also likes cheese.
In 2013, Gus will undertake his first Melbourne tour for Booked Out. He will be available to schools in Melbourne for Book Week (19-23 August). Make him welcome at your school!
» Read more about Gus GordonNew South Wales
Mini Goss is a Melbourne-based award winning author and illustrator, with more than 30 books to her name. Mini’s life-like, detailed illustrations draw readers into a world of imagination and humour that appeal to children and parent alike. She has won over fans in Australia and overseas with her quirky, realistic style.
» Read more about Mini GossVictoria
Dave Graney is a wise guy from the showbusiness scene. He hails from South Australia, but now lives in Melbourne and has been a musician his entire career. Dave writes and performs his own music, as well as composing tracks for film, television and theatre. He is an accomplished performer and has kept his live band Dave Graney and the mistLY together for more than twenty years, still playing nationally. Dave has won several ARIA awards and a gold record. Dave is also passionate about writing, and is the author of 1001 Australian Nights.
» Read more about Dave GraneyVictoria
Neil Grant was born in Scotland in the Year of the Fire Horse. He finished high school at the International School of Kuala Lumpur then spent years blundering through Indonesia, Israel, Yugoslavia, India, Nepal, Thailand, Greece, Italy, the UK and Tasmania. To research his latest novel, The Ink Bridge, he travelled (quietly) through Afghanistan.
» Read more about Neil GrantNew South Wales
Robert’s writing career began when he won the best sentence competition in Grade 3. Since then he’s written TV scripts for Round the Twist, Nickelodeon and has had three books published with Penguin.
» Read more about Robert GreenbergVictoria
Andy Griffiths is one of Australia’s best known and best loved children’s authors. His books have sold over 5 million copies around the world. Andy began as an English teacher and a publisher/editor of educational books and is now the author of over twenty bestselling titles including the JUST! series, the Bum Trilogy, the BAD books, the Schooling Around series, A&T’s Wonderful World of Stupidity and the 13-Storey Treehouse, all illustrated by Terry Denton.
Andy is one of the ambassadors for both The International Year of Reading and The Indigenous Literacy Foundation
» Read more about Andy GriffithsVictoria
Phillip Gwynne’s first novel Deadly Unna? was the literary hit of 1998 winning Children’s Book of the Year and selling over 200,000 copies. It was made into the feature film Australian Rules for which Phillip’s screenplay won an AFI award in 2002. Since then Phillip’s novels have all received both high acclaim and popularity amongst readers including his young adult novel Swerve which was shortlisted for many awards amongst them the 2010 Prime Minister’s Award and the Golden Inky.
» Read more about Phillip GwynneNew South Wales
‘Cartoon’ Dave Hackett will be in Melbourne the last week of Term 3 (16-20 Sep). Dave’s cartooning workshops are a perfect fun way to see out the term. Phone us for more information.
» Read more about Dave HackettQueensland
Tiffiny Hall is a radiant role model. Author, journalist and trainer on Channel Ten’s The Biggest Loser. She has empowered kids with anti-bullying programs and messages of health and confidence in schools for over ten years. In 2012 she adds children’s author to her extensive list of talents with the debut of her series Roxy Ran. The health hero is also a graduate of Melbourne University with Bachelor of Arts/Media and Communications and a Diploma of Modern Languages in French. Her school sessions empower her audience with fun activities that encourage reading, creativity, health, confidence and self-esteem.
» Read more about Tiffiny HallVictoria
Leanne Hall is an author of young adult fiction, and a children’s specialist at an independent bookstore. Her first novel, This Is Shyness, won the Text Prize for Young Adult and Children’s Writing in 2009.
Leanne will take expressions of interest for residencies with schools in Western Australia and other states in 2012.
» Read more about Leanne HallVictoria
Rosalie Ham completed a Bachelor of Education majoring in Drama and Literature, then went on to complete a Master of Arts, Creative Writing at RMIT in 2007, simultaneously completing two best selling novels.
» Read more about Rosalie HamVictoria
Author and researcher Maggie Hamilton writes books and for magazines; gives frequent talks and lectures; is a regular media commentator and a keen observer of social trends. Her many books, which have been published in Australia, New Zealand, Holland, Italy, China, Lithuania, Korea, the Arab States and Brazil, include What Men Don’t Talk About, which examines the lives of real men and boys; What’s Happening to Our Girls? and What’s Happening to Our Boys? which take a close look at the 21st century issues boys and girls face, and offer practical, workable solutions to these challenges; and Secret Girls' Business a fun funky empowering gift book for teen girls.
» Read more about Maggie HamiltonNew South Wales
Victoria
When H.J. Harper was growing up in WA, she wanted to be either a mad scientist or an author. She now lives in Victoria and writes books for younger readers, like the action-packed Star League series, but is still working on her Mad Science PhD.
» Read more about H J HarperVictoria
Pip Harry is a journalist, blogger and author of I’ll Tell You Mine. Pip found it extremely difficult to become an author and would now like to inspire young adults to keep striving for their goals, no matter how many setbacks and knockbacks they get along the way.
» Read more about Pip HarryNew South Wales
Roland Harvey writes and illustrates highly detailed, funny and slightly educational books using pen ink and watercolour. He has won a number of awards including the Dromkeen Medal. He demonstrates his craft in an entertaining manner to all ages.
» Read more about Roland HarveyVictoria
Karen Healey is a young adult author of contemporary fantasy and science fiction for tomorrow’s heroines. A New Zealander living in Australia, she’s a fan of baking, feminism, and World of Warcraft.
» Read more about Karen HealeyVictoria
Barry Heard is Scribe Publication’s bestselling author. His first book, Well Done Those Men is used in over one hundred high schools throughout Australia in both History and English subject areas. Barry visits these schools to give talks on the book. Now claimed as a classic, the author has received over 100 000 emails and some 30 000 letters in response to the book. The book is essential reading in most Australian University History faculties.
Barry has been involved with fund raising for the Hope Foundation, the Fred Hollows Foundation, Books for Bhutan, and the Repatriation Hospital Heidelberg. His writing has garnered him the Weary Dunlop Award and the Sir Edmund Herring award, and he is a five time winner of the Veteran Community short story competition.
» Read more about Barry HeardVictoria
Jack Heath is the author of six action-packed thrillers for young adults. He started writing his first book at age thirteen and had a publishing contract for it at eighteen. His work is now sold in eight countries.
» Read more about Jack HeathAustralian Capital Territory
Justin is an awkward, sorry, award-winning writer and performer who is heard on Triple J and read in Frankie magazine. He is best known as folk-comedy sensation The Bedroom Philosopher, writer of hilarious and thought provoking songs, (educational too).
» Read more about Justin HeazlewoodVictoria
John Heffernan has written about thirty books for a range of audiences from early readers to young adults, in a range of genre that includes realistic fiction, fantasy, futuristic, and picture books. He also writes for junior readers under the pseudonym “Charlie Carter” (most notably, the Battle Boy series).
» Read more about John HeffernanNew South Wales
Anthony Hill is an award-winning author of historically accurate books for children and young adults. They include Soldier Boy (NSW Premier’s Award), about the youngest Anzac; and The Burnt Stick (CBCA Honour Book) a powerful story from the ‘Stolen Generations.’
Anthony regularly visits Sydney and Melbourne. In 2013, he will be available for schools in Melbourne from May 30–June 8.
» Read more about Anthony HillAustralian Capital Territory
Robert Hillman has published more than sixty works of fiction and non-fiction. His books feature in school libraries all over Australia and his autobiography, The Boy in the Green Suit, won the 2005 Australian National Biography Award. His publications cover sports, Australian history, nation building, Young Australian achievers, and the plight of refugees and asylum seekers
» Read more about Robert HillmanVictoria
Lia Hills is a poet, novelist and translator. Her work has been published, performed, and translated both locally and internationally, and focuses on sources of meaning.
» Read more about Lia HillsVictoria
Nette Hilton is a compelling and challenging storyteller of exciting tales for children of all ages with a voice that is strong and filled with warmth and humour. She creates the extraordinary in the everyday lives of families captivating her readers while opening new worlds and realities for them.
» Read more about Nette HiltonNew South Wales
Kate Holden is the author of the best-selling In My Skin and a columnist for The Age. She speaks frankly and movingly of her time as a heroin addict and sex worker, talks of personal dignity and survival, and also speaks about her writing career as a memoirist and freelancer.
» Read more about Kate HoldenVictoria
Elizabeth Honey is an award-winning author of poetry, picture books and novels. She is also an artist and illustrates her own books. Her playful humour, originality, and energy strike a chord with children everywhere. Her novels are published in many countries.
» Read more about Elizabeth HoneyVictoria
Joanne Horniman has been writing for twenty-five years and is an experienced writing teacher to both adults and children.
» Read more about Joanne HornimanNew South Wales
Shane Horsburgh is a former counter terrorism operator who has turned his hand to developing inner peace and productivity in people of all ages, especially young men. His inspirational story Fighting Blind highlights the perils of pursuing an ego driven life. It provides an entertaining and colourful background to his programs which deal with issues such as harassment/bullying, self-awareness and achieving high performance.
» Read more about Shane HorsburghAustralian Capital Territory
New South Wales
Simmone Howell has written everything from advertorials to short plays to soap opera dialogue. But mainly, she writes realistic teenage fiction and runs zine workshops.
» Read more about Simmone HowellVictoria
Melinda Hutchings is a media commentator, author, speaker and mentor on the topic of body image and teen issues. She is the author of four books and is passionate about empowering young people to face and overcome challenging issues and to recognise their enormous potential to create a happy and fulfilling future.
» Read more about Melinda HutchingsNew South Wales
Michael Hyde has written for kids, teens and YA for 30 years. He has twenty five published books, mostly fiction, but also several English and Writing texts.
» Read more about Michael HydeVictoria
George Ivanoff is the author of the Gamers series of teen novels, set inside a computer game world, as well as many other works for young people. His books appear on both the Vic and NSW Premiers' Reading Challenge booklists. He enjoys speaking to all age levels from primary school through to adult.
» Read more about George IvanoffVictoria
Linda Jaivin is one of Australia’s most versatile writers. Her work spans humour, eroticism, social issues (The Infernal Optimist is set in an immigration detention centre), China studies, literary translation and cultural commentary. She has appeared on ABC’s Q & A and was a regular panelist on the now sadly defunct Critical Mass.
» Read more about Linda JaivinNew South Wales
Petra James wanted to be an archaeologist when she grew up. Instead she sold chocolate chip cookies and became a book editor. To compensate for her zigzagging career, she is now writing a series about a treasure hunter and her archaeologist parents.
» Read more about Petra JamesNew South Wales
Carol Jones has been a teacher, children’s magazine editor and publisher. She has written more than 40 books for children, including educational fiction and non-fiction, eight novels and trade non-fiction.
» Read more about Carol JonesVictoria
Toni Jordan’s debut novel, the international best-seller Addition, was published in 2008 and shortlisted for both the Barbara Jefferis award and the ABIA best general fiction book, longlisted for the Miles Franklin Literary Award and won best debut fiction in the 2008 Indie awards. Addition was published in 16 countries and has been optioned for film. Her second novel, Fall Girl, was published in November 2010 in Australia and will be published in 2011 in the UK, Germany, France and Taiwan.
» Read more about Toni JordanVictoria
‘Tara June Winch is a most stimulating young person to know and to interact with, an active mind and a truly engaged social being.’ Professor Wole Soyinka, Nobel Laureate and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador.
» Read more about Tara June WinchNew South Wales
Kim Kane was born in London in a bed bequeathed by Wordsworth to …a writer, a painter or a poet'. Despite this auspicious beginning, she went on to practise law.
In 2004, Kim threw her unbridled materialism to the wind and started to write. Kim now works exactly part-time as a lawyer and exactly part-time as a writer and the combination is perfect.
Kim has noticed that most proper children’s writers like chickens. Kim hates chickens. She does, however, like being backstage, her nephew, Angus, and, if she is strictly honest, most fatty snacks. Above all of these things (except perhaps Angus), Kim likes telling stories, and on a good writing day she wouldn’t trade her life for anything.
» Read more about Kim KaneVictoria
Danny Katz is a Canadian-born author and newspaper columnist who writes for The Age, the Sydney Morning Herald and The West Australian. He is the Modern Guru in Good Weekend Magazine.
» Read more about Danny KatzVictoria
Geoff has worked in most areas of illustration from magazines and publishing to the many faceted world of commercial art. He has written and illustrated a number of children’s books and made the pictures for many more.
» Read more about Geoff KellyVictoria
Cate Kennedy writes across most genres – fiction, poetry and non-fiction. Her short stories and essays regularly appear in magazines and literary journals. She is one of Australia’s most popular teachers of the short story form.
» Read more about Cate KennedyVictoria
Phil is an award winning author of over 150 books. Phil is a much sought after school speaker.
» Read more about Phil KettleVictoria
Cool Australia founder Jason Kimberly is an eco-warrior, globally renowned photographer, adventurer and founder of the online environmental resources, Cool Australia and Our Cool School.
» Read more about Jason KimberlyVictoria
Anneli is a regular contributor to The Age and Sydney Morning Herald newspapers and is author of Flirting with Finance, the modern woman’s guide to financial freedom. She lives and writes between Melbourne, the Kimberley and Northern NSW.
» Read more about Anneli KnightNew South Wales
Will Kostakis is an award-winning author for young adults, who splits his time between writing novels, working as a journalist and touring high schools nationally. His debut novel, Loathing Lola was released when he was just 19 and met with critical acclaim. Now 24, he is touring to promote his sophomore novel, The First Third.
» Read more about Will KostakisNew South Wales
Anna Krien is a writer of the usual suspects – journalism, essays, fiction and poetry. Her debut book Into the Woods: The Battle for Tasmania’s Forests was shortlisted for the 2011 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards and she has been published in The Monthly, The Age, The Big Issue, The Best Australian Essays, The Best Australian Stories, Griffith Review, Colors, and Frankie. In 2008, she won the Val Vallis Poetry Award.
» Read more about Anna KrienVictoria
Sofie Laguna is an actor, author and playwright. Her many books for children have been published in the US and the UK and in translation throughout Europe and Asia.
Sofie will take expressions of interest for residencies with schools in Western Australia in 2012.
» Read more about Sofie LagunaVictoria
Judith Lanigan brings a wealth of performance experience and circus skills to her public speaking. She is entertaining, unusual and memorable.
» Read more about Judith LaniganVictoria
Thriller author, L.A. Larkin, has been likened to Michael Crichton and John Grisham. Her debut novel, The Genesis Flaw, received glowing reviews and was nominated for four crime writing awards. Her second thriller, Thirst, was published in August 2012 and has been described as ‘the best Antarctic thriller since Ice Station. L. A. Larkin divides her time between writing novels, her public speaking engagements and running thriller writing courses. She is a member of The Australian Society of Authors, Sisters In Crime, International Thriller Writers, and the UK’s Crime Writers’ Association.
» Read more about L.A. LarkinNew South Wales
Benjamin Law is a Brisbane-based freelance writer for various magazines, including frankie, The Monthly, Qweekend and Good Weekend. In 2009, he released his black comedy memoir The Family Law, which was about growing up in Australia as gay and Asian—or, for brevity’s sake, gaysian. His new book is Gaysia: Adventures in the Queer East.
» Read more about Benjamin LawQueensland
Julia Lawrinson is an award-winning author for children and young adults and an engaging presenter for students of all ages. She had published ten novels from Aussie Nibbles to young adult fiction.
» Read more about Julia LawrinsonWestern Australia
Sue Lawson worked as a teacher and a radio announcer/producer before serious illness motivated her to devote more time to her true passion – writing.
» Read more about Sue LawsonVictoria
Steven Lochran is the author of the Vanguard Prime series, published by Penguin and described as “Alex Rider joins the X-Men”. He majored in Creative Writing at QUT and has worked as a film critic, a projectionist and as a mobile party DJ. Most recently, he’s worked in the publishing industry as a marketing assistant and a sales rep, giving him a good overview of both the art and commerce of writing.
» Read more about Steven LochranVictoria
Doug MacLeod had his first book published at the age of sixteen, which earned him a fan letter from British comedian John Cleese. After graduating from the writing course at The Victorian College of Arts, Doug became head writer of the hit show The Comedy Company, and continued working full-time in TV for fourteen years, before leaving to write novels for young adults.
Doug MacLeod will take expressions of interest from schools in South Australia in May 2012
» Read more about Doug MacLeodVictoria
Emma Magenta was born in Sydney and began her career drawing and writing her thoughts down on brown paper bags while working at Berkelouw Books in Paddington. After pinning them to the front window, they accrued a cult status and a publishing deal was offered to her by Australian publishing phenomenon; Bradley Trevor Grieve.
Since then, she has written and illustrated several adult picture books; The Peril of Magnificent Love, A Gorgeous Sense of Hope, The Origin of Lament and The Gradual Demise of Phillipa Finch. These books explore aspects of the feminine psyche, one’s emotional world and the secret life of relationships. They have resonated with thousands of women around the globe as an antidote to depression and a validation of hope.
» Read more about Emma MagentaNew South Wales
Emily Maguire is the award-winning author of three novels and two non-fiction books. Her articles and essays on sex, religion, culture and literature have been published widely in Australian and international magazines, journals and newspapers.
» Read more about Emily MaguireNew South Wales
Shane Maloney is a popular novelist. His books have been published in the US, Britain, Japan, Germany, France, Finland and Tasmania.
» Read more about Shane MaloneyVictoria
Aquatic Scientist Sheree Marris is one of Australia’s youngest environment ambassadors. She is committed to educating the community about their responsibilities in water preservation, marine life and other environmental issues such as recycling. Among her many accolades, she was Young Australian of the Year (Victoria) in 2002.
» Read more about Sheree MarrisVictoria
John Marsden is the author of titles including So Much to Tell You, Letters From the Inside, and the much celebrated Tomorrow series, adapted for film in 2010. From a childhood at a deeply conservative paramilitary school with strict standards and a culture of rugby and rowing, John developed a passion for reading, writing and education at an early age. So far has published fiction and non-fiction for children, young adults and adults and has founded the Candlebark School in Victoria.
» Read more about John MarsdenVictoria
Felicity is an author and illustrator of children’s picture books, as well as an accomplished painter. She believes in a holistic approach to art, and its role in all forms as both expression and therapy. She also believes that the process of creating art is as important as the end result.
» Read more about Felicity MarshallVictoria
Marc Martin is one of Australia’s most talented new picture-book creators. Having formally trained as a graphic designer, he splits his time between his design studio and various illustration projects. His first book, A Forest, explores themes of sustainability, growth, and our relationship with the environment.
» Read more about Marc MartinVictoria
Prue Mason lived for many years in the Middle East and draws on her own many exciting life experiences to write her children’s adventure novels that have been particularly successful with boy readers. She has also written many articles and short stories for children’s magazines in Australia and internationally.
» Read more about Prue MasonQueensland
A shepherd boy from the mountains of Afghanistan, Najaf became a rugmaker of genius but was forced to flee his homeland under the onslaught of the Taliban. He painstakingly rebuilt his life in Australia and rescued his family from the despair of Pakistan’s refugee camps.
» Read more about Najaf MazariVictoria
Maureen McCarthy is one of Australia’s best loved writer’s for Young Adults. Her novels are full of gutsy and believable characters caught at the cusp of adulthood – a time when so much is changing and being decided. Her strong storylines celebrate the complexity of contemporary life with honesty and humor.
» Read more about Maureen McCarthyVictoria
Andrew McDonald is an author, a blogger and a mammal. His debut book for children, The Greatest Blogger in the World, features a protagonist, a blog, and a duck.
» Read more about Andrew McDonaldVictoria
Meme has written nine books (most recently the novel Love Like Water) that have received six major literary awards. Her other writing includes the ABC online documentary, A Year On The Wing; co-writing rock musicals Riff-Raff and Xenophobia and numerous theatre productions; and co-writing a feature filmscript based on the bestselling book – My Girragundji – written in collaboration with Boori Monty Pryor. She recently wrote and directed the short film Warrima – Shake-a-Leg Dance for YouthWorx Productions focusing on the importance of traditional dance for young indigenous men both from Melbourne and from Kuranda, North Queensland. Meme is experienced at engaging audiences of all ages and inspires creativity within others through her unique approach to writing workshops.
» Read more about Meme McDonaldVictoria
Breathtaking and often hilarious, Russell’s entertaining stories and photos of his adventures will inspire anyone with an ounce of wonder dust in their pants and the courage to say ‘yes’ to the big ‘what if’ that lies out there for all of us.
A natural speaker, Russell has performed here in Australia and overseas, making appearances on Neighbours, the London comedy circuit, in a cover band as an Austin Powers/Dr Evil impersonator and as a children’s entertainer.
» Read more about Russell McGiltonVictoria
Michael is a well known author, commentator and presenter. He is a familiar voice on radio. As well as writing his own books, he has reviewed over 900 books for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. He is the author of Bypass: The story of a road.
» Read more about Michael McGirrVictoria
Esther Mckay has led an incredible life, from her work as a crime scene examiner in Sydney to best selling author. She is an advocate for Police suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and works actively to improve conditions for mental health in emergency workers. She speaks regularly about her experiences and is an Australia Day Ambassador.
» Read more about Esther McKayNew South Wales
Glenda Millard writes picture books, novels for younger readers and for young adults. Her books have been published in Australia and internationally and have won many accolades.
In 2013, Glenda will be taking just one week of school bookings in Victoria, in Book Week (19-23 August). She will take enquiries for residencies outside these dates.
» Read more about Glenda MillardVictoria
David Miller is having a lot of difficulty answering this question, so here are a few kind words from publisher Helen Chamberlin: ‘David is a leading Australian children’s book author/illustrator with a hugely impressive track record. His unique paper sculptures are of the highest artistic merit and he has a consummately professional approach to all he undertakes.’
» Read more about David MillerVictoria
Tristan Miller has had an incredible story, for such a regular guy. He dealt with a number of life’s highs and lows, before finally losing his dream job at Google in the Global Financial Crisis of 2009. Instead of laying down, he turned his life into an amazing adventure by running 52 marathons in 52 weeks, in 42 countries, on all 7 continents!
» Read more about Tristan MillerVictoria
James Moloney has written more than thirty books for readers between seven and seventeen years old. Many of his YA novels are widely studied in schools and two have won the CBCA Book of the Year Award. He is an engaging speaker for all ages from seven upwards.
» Read more about James MoloneyQueensland
Meg Mundell is a novelist, journalist, short fiction writer and teacher who is passionate about the power of storytelling. Meg has taught journalism at the University of Melbourne and run creative writing workshops for young homeless people. She has a strong interest in creativity, social justice and sense of place.
» Read more about Meg MundellVictoria
Kirsty Murray is a multi award-winning author of seventeen books whose dynamic and inspiring presentations are guaranteed to send young people away itching to read more widely and to believe that they too can share their stories with the world.
» Read more about Kirsty MurrayVictoria
Martine Murray left university to study art. After art school she studied more physical things like acrobatics and dance. Then she tried to join it all together in theatre. Meanwhile, she started writing just to keep track of what was going on. She spends a lot of time walking with her dog, Bear, and thinking up ideas. She has never learnt practical skills except how to cook rice. She lives in Melbourne.
» Read more about Martine MurrayVictoria
Dr Michael Nagel is an Associate Professor and the Head of Education Programs in the School of Science in Education at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Dr Nagel teaches and researches in the areas of cognition, behaviour and learning and human development and early learning.
» Read more about Dr Michael NagelQueensland
Katrina Nannestad grew up in central-western New South Wales and has lived and worked most of her life in small country towns. After studying Arts and Education at the University of New England, she went on to teach, travel, raise children and pursue her love of stories. Katrina likes to celebrate family, friendship and community in her writing.
» Read more about Katrina NannestadVictoria
Josh Nelson (BCA Hons, PhD) is a freelance writer, academic, broadcaster and filmmaker. He has worked as a lecturer at The University of Melbourne, Monash University and Victoria University, and has extensive experience presenting to secondary schools on a number of film and media-related topics.
» Read more about Josh NelsonVictoria
Richard Newsome has worked as a journalist, a strategy consultant and the communications director for a multinational media company. His Billionaire’s trilogy of children’s books, which has been sold into eight countries, started as a bedtime story for his children.
» Read more about Richard NewsomeQueensland
Robert Newton works as a full-time firefighter with the Metropolitan Fire Brigade. His wrote his first novel, My Name is Will Thompson in 2001 and since then has written four other novels for young adults, including Runner in 2005 and Black Dog Gang in 2007. His upcoming novel for young adults is set for a 2011 release.
» Read more about Robert NewtonVictoria
After thirteen years as a detective in the NSW police force, P.M. Newton decided to take a leap into the unknown and seek a different path, one that did not involve constantly meeting people for the first time on the worst day of their life. Since then she has travelled to Timbuktu, written about music in Mali, studied Buddhist philosophy in India, taught English to Tibetan monks and written a critically acclaimed novel.
Who says you can’t change your life?
» Read more about P.M. NewtonNew South Wales
Victoria
Northern Territory
Patrick O’Neil is a 31-year-old travel writer, journalist, editor and author. His debut travel memoir, spanning six continents, was published by Penguin in 2009 and reprinted in 2010. In between overseas jaunts, he works editing news and writing headlines for The Age newspaper.
» Read more about Patrick O'NeilVictoria
Paddy O'Reilly is a multi-award winning writer of fiction and non fiction and a passionate speaker on the art of writing.
» Read more about Paddy O'ReillyVictoria
Narelle Oliver is author and illustrator of award-winning picture books which feature narratives based on both natural history and imaginary/social/mathematical themes. Equipped with a Bachelor of Education, teaching experience, and twenty years of publication experience, she has conducted writing and illustrating workshops across Australia and South-East Asia.
» Read more about Narelle OliverQueensland
Sonia Orchard is a freelance writer and author with a background in classical music, marine biology, teaching (music and environmental education), cooking and scuba-diving instruction.
» Read more about Sonia OrchardVictoria
Wendy Orr has spoken to groups as little as 5 and as big as 5000 people across Australia, Canada and the USA. She is known for the honesty and inspirational qualities of her sessions.
» Read more about Wendy OrrVictoria
Amra Pajalic is a young novelist with a big future. Her debut novel The Good Daughter was published in May 2009 by Text Publishing. Her short stories have placed in competitions, been published in magazines, journals and anthologies. She lives in St Albans, Melbourne, with her husband, daughter and three cats.
» Read more about Amra PajalicVictoria
Dr Maria Pallotta-Chiarolli has gained national and international recognition as a writer, researcher, lecturer and consultant in the issues of cultural diversity, gender diversity, sexual diversity, family diversity, HIV/AIDS, and social diversity in health and education, with a specific focus on adolescence and young people. She is Honorary Patron of PFLAG Victoria; External Faculty Member of Saybrook University in San Francisco and Founding Member of AGMC (Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Council), which has been recognised as a member of FECCA (Federation of Ethnic Communities Councils of Australia). Her first novel has recently won a 2010 US Lambda Literary Award
» Read more about Dr Maria Pallotta-ChiarolliVictoria
Tony Palmer is a graphic designer by profession and writes part time about Australian History. His first novel, Break of Day is written with ringing clarity and real immediacy, putting his readers inside the skin of his characters.
» Read more about Tony PalmerVictoria
Michael Panckridge has written over thirty five books, many with a sporty theme, making them ideal reads for boys and reluctant readers. They are pacy, readable and hit the spot!
» Read more about Michael PanckridgeVictoria
Louise Park was a classroom teacher, teaching consultant, Literacy advisor and Seminar presenter before becoming one of Australia’s hottest children’s authors. She currently juggles the running of her own publishing and packaging business with her first love–writing for children.
» Read more about Louise ParkNew South Wales
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).
» Read more about Tim PeglerVictoria
Chrissie Perry has written twenty-five books for kids, including thirteen in the popular Go Girl! series that explore ‘real life, for real girls’.
» Read more about Chrissie PerryVictoria
James Phelan was born in Melbourne in 1979. His creative spirit was nurtured from a young age, and he credits his overactive imagination to being exposed to authors such as Roald Dahl and Paul Jennings, as well as such works as The Hobbit, Treasure Island, The Jungle Book, Tales of the Punjab, Siddhartha and The Little Prince.
» Read more about James PhelanVictoria
Oliver Phommavanh loves to make people laugh, whether it’s on the page writing humour for kids or on stage as a stand-up comedian. He also shares his passion for writing with the kids he teaches at a primary school in Western Sydney. As a comedian, Oliver has appeared on stage, and on national TV and radio.
In 2013, Oliver will tour Melbourne schools in Book Week (19-23 August). Subject to demand, extra Victorian dates will be added. Oliver will also travel to Thailand in early March 2013, and be available for school visits through Booked Out.
» Read more about Oliver PhommavanhNew South Wales
Ailsa Piper has worked as a writer, theatre director, actor, speaker, teacher and pate-wrapper, completing her MA at the University of Melbourne whilst acting in Neighbours. just after this, she won the Patrick White Playwrights’ Award. She is a passionate – some would say obsessive – walker, and her book Sinning Across Spain, reflects that.
» Read more about Ailsa PiperVictoria
Nick Place is an internationally-published writer of comedy adventure novels for pre-teen and early teen readers. He is also a published poet and has credits as a screenwriter, TV writer and playwright. Away from writing fiction, he is a career journalist/media identity.
» Read more about Nick PlaceVictoria
Andrew trained as a zoologist before discovering he preferred painting and writing about animals rather than dissecting them! Although he still loves being a science educator, he also designs, choreographs, and directs student theatre. A scientific artist, or an artistic scientist!
» Read more about Andrew PlantVictoria
Ben Pobjie is the author of the Masterchef spoof Superchef, and the satirical collection Surveying the Wreckage. He is the resident satirist for New Matilda and TV writer for the Saturday Age, co-hosts comedy podcast Gather Around Me, and is a regular voice on ABC radio, Triple R and 3CR as well as writing occasionally for TV.
» Read more about Ben PobjieVictoria
Liz Porter gives entertaining talks that reveal the realities behind the fiction of shows such as CSI – how real life detectives and forensic investigators use forensic science to solve crimes. She also talks about how the true crime writer chooses her material very selectively – because most real-life crimes are too banal to make good material.
» Read more about Liz PorterVictoria
Best-selling author Michael Pryor has published more than twenty books and fifty short stories. He is one of Australia’s leading fantasy writers. Michael has been shortlisted six times for the Aurealis Awards (including for Blaze of Glory and Heart of Gold), has been nominated for a Ditmar award, and five of his books have been CBCA Notable Books, including Word of Honour.
» Read more about Michael PryorVictoria
Felicity’s stories reflect her passion for history (both Australian history and medieval England) and her fascination with the unknown in our world: time travel, ghosts and reincarnation.
» Read more about Felicity PulmanNew South Wales
Alice Pung is a writer and lawyer who loves teaching. Alice’s books are studied in secondary schools and universities in Australia as well as the United States, and she has taught writing workshops to students from the ages of 8 to 80 in Australia, China and the States. Alice is also an Ambassador for the 100 Story Building Project, a social enterprise which helps promote literature and literacy skills to young people in the Western suburbs.
» Read more about Alice PungVictoria
Jeff Raglus is a well known artist, illustrator and musician. He has worked for Mambo Graphics, Swatch Watches and has played in musical ensembles such as The Black Sorrows and The Bachelors from Prague.
» Read more about Jeff RaglusVictoria
Hannie Rayson is a multi-award winning playwright who has a reputation for topical complex dramas written with wit and insight. She is an accomplished public speaker – funny, incisive and thoughtful.
» Read more about Hannie RaysonVictoria
Sally Rippin is one of Booked Out’s most versatile speakers. She has run workshops and given presentations from Prep to Year 12 in both writing and illustrating. Sally travels regularly throughout Australia to speak at schools and festivals and has recently had residencies in Beijing, Singapore, Shanghai and Ghana.
In 2013, Sally is returning to school visits after a year off. She will take school bookings for three weeks between 12-30 August. These dates are now fully booked, though we will take expressions of interest for future bookings, or recommend alternative speakers for August.
» Read more about Sally RippinVictoria
Marion Roberts is a fiction writer with two novels published for young readers following the misguided adventures of eleven-year-old Sunny Hathaway. Marion also has a Masters in creative writing and enjoys teaching children to develop their writing skills by running workshops in schools.
» Read more about Marion RobertsVictoria
Jeannette Rowe is one of Australia’s best selling preschool authors/illustrators. She has published over 100 picture books over the past twelve years and has sold nearly two million books around the world. She has also developed four Digital BookGames, including the award-winning YoYo Go Spy for iPad. Find out about these games here.
» Read more about Jeannette RoweVictoria
Since starting on a country newspaper in 1975, Andrew Rule has worked on three metropolitan newspapers and in both radio and television production. He has written, co-written, edited and published many books, including the Underbelly true crime series and the Chopper series, which inspired the successful feature film. He hosts a regular fortnightly spot on Triple M’s Hot Breakfast called In The Rule World.
» Read more about Andrew RuleVictoria
Penni Russon is an intelligent literary author for young people with a Masters in Creative Writing. She has worked as an online editor and in book publishing, and in teaching creative writing at university.
» Read more about Penni RussonVictoria
Sue Saliba is the prize-winning author of novels for Young Adults. She has taught English at secondary school, Novel Writing at RMIT and Creative Writing at Melbourne University.
» Read more about Sue SalibaVictoria
Angela Savage’s crime novels are inspired by the six and a half years she spent living in South-east Asia in the late 1990s, working for the Red Cross on HIV/AIDS programs. Her love affair with Asia continues, and in 2008 she spent the year in Cambodia with her partner and their two-year-old.
» Read more about Angela SavageVictoria
After a fully-booked tour in 2012, Craig will return to Australia exclusively through Booked Out in 2013. He will visit Adelaide from 5–10 August, Melbourne from 11–17 August, Brisbane from 18–24 August, and Sydney from 25–31 August. Locations between these cities can be arranged on demand. Download the flyer for more info.
Craig Smith is the performer and author of The Wonky Donkey, the biggest selling picture book in Australia in 2010. It is still amongst the top three best selling children’s picture books, outsold only by Mem Fox’s Where’s the Green Sheep and Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
» Read more about Craig Smith (NZ)New South Wales
R.A.Spratt is an award-winning comedy writer with thirteen years experience in the television industry. She started out writing political satire, then moved into sketch comedy, then pre-school drama and in more recent years has worked mainly in animation. R.A. Spratt lives in Sydney. She used to enjoy bellringing, hapkido and long distance running. But then she had two children has rarely left the house since. She is currently working on the 6th installment in the Nanny Piggins series.
» Read more about R.A. SprattNew South Wales
Jen Storer is a talented and exciting writer for children. Her gothic novel, Tensy Farlow and the Home for Mislaid Children, was shortlisted for a string of awards including the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards (Best Children’s Fiction) and the CBCA Book of the Year. Jen’s homage to Enid Blyton, The Accidental Princess was a Notable Book in the 2012 CBCA Book of the Year Awards. Her latest release is a comedy/mystery series for younger girls. Book one, Truly Tan, is out now through ABC Books. Book two, Truly Tan: Jinxed! is due out in May 2013, and book three, Truly Tan:Spooked! is set for November, 2013. Prior to becoming a full-time writer, Jen worked in the publishing industry as an editor, a project manager and in creative development. She has a studio at the Abbotsford Convent in Melbourne and is an active member of this vibrant arts community.
» Read more about Jen StorerVictoria
Tony Thompson is a Melbourne based writer and teacher, and a specialist in the VCE English curriculum. He has written two non fiction books for teenagers. His articles on education have appeared in The Age and The Australian.
» Read more about Tony ThompsonVictoria
Ian writes picture story books, novels for older readers and young adult novels as well as dabbling in some freelance journalism. He was, until recently a primary school teacher, but after 40 years in front of a chalkboard he finally decided writing is heaps more fun and so much quieter.
» Read more about Ian TrevaskisVictoria
Coral Tulloch has worked on close to 60 books for children for both Australian and International publishers. As an author and illustrator, working in both fiction and non-fiction, Coral brings a wide range of presentations from cartooning to discussions on the environment, for a wide audience group.
Her latest book, One Small Island co-authored and co-illustrated with Alison Lester tells the story of Macquarie Island. She is currently working on two illustrated fictions, which revolve around the continent she loves so well.
» Read more about Coral TullochTasmania
Maria Tumarkin is a Melbourne-based writer and a historian. She is the author of three critically acclaimed books of narrative non-fiction, which explore some of today’s most pressing issues – identity, immigration, family, moral courage and trauma.
» Read more about Maria TumarkinVictoria
Chris is an Australian and British professor of Earth science and author of three popular science books. Chris is an Australian Research Council (ARC) Laureate Fellow and Professor of Climate Change at the University of University of New South Wales, where he and his team are focusing their efforts on finding lessons from the past.
» Read more about Chris TurneyNew South Wales
Erin Vincent is a highly respected journalist who has worked both here and in the US for publications such as The Australian, Marie Claire, The Sunday Telegraph and America’s biggest selling publication People Magazine. She is also the author of the acclaimed memoir Grief Girl: My True Story that is now in its seventh printing in the US and was named a New York Public Library’s Best Book for 2007.
» Read more about Erin VincentNew South Wales
David Nyuol Vincent is one of the Lost Boys of Sudan. He was trained as a child soldier in Ethiopia and lived as a refugee in Kenya until he was twenty-six. Since rebuilding his life here in Australia, David has become an advocate for refugees and the Sudanese community and he is a Victorian Human Rights Youth Ambassador and a People of Australia Ambassador. He also helped to set up an all-Sudanese refugee football team, the Western Tigers, in the Brimbank soccer league. David is a true humanitarian and is committed to achieving peace for his people in Sudan.
» Read more about David Nyuol VincentVictoria
Michael Wagner is one of Australia’s most original and successful writers for children. His 45+ books successfully engage readers (even reluctant ones) with quirky humour, fast-paced action and unpredictable storytelling.
» Read more about Michael WagnerVictoria
Anna Walker has illustrated and written delightful books for young children. Her books have won awards for their design and content and are published internationally.
» Read more about Anna WalkerVictoria
Gabrielle Wang is an award winning author and illustrator of novels and picture books for children and young adults. She was born in Melbourne of Chinese heritage. As a result, Gabrielle’s books are a blend of both Australian and Chinese culture with a touch of fantasy. She has conducted workshops in writing and illustrating around Australia and overseas.
Gabrielle Wang will tour schools in Perth between 16–27 September 2013.
» Read more about Gabrielle WangVictoria
Maya Ward walked the length of the Yarra River from the sea to the source and wrote the book The Comfort of Water: A River Pilgrimage to share her tale. She is passionate about education in creative environmental problem-solving and works as an eco-urban design consultant and writer when not planting trees and growing vegies.
» Read more about Maya WardVictoria
Paula has worked as a print journalist and government communication specialist, and is now one half of a writer-designer consultancy. She has been writing fiction for many years, finding her niche penning gritty young adult paranormal stories with an Australian flavour in the Rephaim series.
» Read more about Paula WestonQueensland
Trudy White is a painter, illustrator, author and designer. She draws in watercolour, ink and acrylic paint, making large paintings and small books, and she also designs books and other things.
» Read more about Trudy WhiteVictoria
Frances Whiting is Queensland’s best-known and best-loved newspaper columnist. For five years her weekly column in the Sunday Mail has made readers smile, cry, tear their hair out, and on several occasions, fall out of bed laughing. Frances is also the Associate Editor of the Sunday Mail and Senior Feature Writer. When she isn’t doing all of these things she enjoys playing guitar badly and falling off her surfboard.
» Read more about Frances WhitingQueensland
Lili Wilkinson is a reader and writer of YA literature. She is the author of five books for teenagers. When she’s not reading or writing, she can often be found making monsters out of wool.
» Read more about Lili WilkinsonVictoria
Carole speaks engagingly about her books and the research process. She shows how she finds her stories in history and how historical artifacts inspire her.
» Read more about Carole WilkinsonVictoria
Gabrielle Williams has a brown-belt in karate, and once she hits black-belt status, things are gonna change dramatically around her house. Her kids will suddenly find themselves a whole lot more helpful with the housework – namely the dishes – and a whole lot less mouthy. Oh, and she writes a bit as well.
Gabrielle will take expressions of interest for residencies with schools in Western Australia and other states in 2012.
» Read more about Gabrielle WilliamsVictoria
Mark Wilson is one of Australia’s most successful author/illustrators of children’s books. He currently has seventeen books in print in Australia and the USA. His picture books have won many awards including two Whiteley Awards for children’s picture books, two Wilderness Society Awards and five CBCA Notable Picture Book awards.
» Read more about Mark WilsonVictoria
Tony Wilson has written two hilarious satirical novels about celebrity and tabloid media. He is also the author of five picture books, and has worked successfully on television (Race Around the World and Santo, Sam and Ed’s Cup Fever!), radio (Triple R’s Breakfasters) and print media (The Age and The Monthly).
» Read more about Tony WilsonVictoria
Fiona Wood has been writing television scripts for the last ten years on shows ranging from MDA and The Secret Life of Us, to Home and Away and Neighbours. Her first YA novel, Six Impossible Things, was shortlisted for the CBCA Book of the Year, Older Readers in 2011, and, and her second novel, Wildlife, is out in 2013. She lives in Melbourne with her husband, two YAs and a bad old dog.
» Read more about Fiona WoodVictoria
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Randa Abdel-Fattah
Author, Social Commentator
Randa Abdel-Fattah is the award-winning author of young adult novels and has extensive experience speaking at schools, writer’s festivals, universities and conferences in Australia and overseas. She is also a human rights activist and practicing lawyer and enjoys a public profile, appearing on television programs such as the ABC’s Q & A, First Tuesday Book Club, SBS’s Insight and Channel Seven’s Sunrise.
» Read more about Randa Abdel-FattahAudiences
Location
New South Wales