Anton Clifford-Motopi

Author

Anton writes funny stories for children that explore themes of identity, race, belonging, family relationships and friendship. His stories draw on his experiences of growing up in a large adoptive family, discovering his Black African father and white Australian mother, and raising four children.

Where were you born?

I was born in Brisbane and grew up in Redcliffe, a seaside town about 30 km north of Brisbane. When I was nine, my family moved to Wellington, New Zealand. We lived there for two years before returning to Redcliffe.

What other jobs have you had?

I have been a health researcher, university lecturer, high school teacher, store person, and a waiter in a seafood restaurant.

What themes are recurring in your work?

Identity, race, family, and friendship with a healthy dose of humour.

What have been the highlights of your career?

Getting To and Fro published is the highlight of my writing career because it is my debut novel.

Where have your works been published?

To and Fro is published in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about writing funny stories for children that explore the world of characters from unique backgrounds who are on a journey of identity development.

I am also passionate about racial equity and justice, basketball, the theatre, and homemade peanut butter.

Haven’t I seen you before?

Hmm… I don’t think you will have seen me before but if you have it was probably on my author website or the University of Queensland website where I work part-time as a researcher in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

I am a father to three daughters and a son, and a grandfather to one granddaughter.