Chris Miles

Author

Chris Miles has written a wide range of books for children and teenagers. He’s found fun and unique pathways into studying Australian history in his popular non-fiction books, thrilled reluctant readers with fast-paced adventures as an author on the mega-successful Zac Power series, and provoked LOLs and a few gasps with Spurt: a balls and all story, his outrageously naughty comedy novel for teens. His sessions explore how to engage young people with history, narrative, and humour.

Where were you born?

I was born in Melbourne but we moved around Victoria a lot while I was growing up (my dad was a bank manager); I’ve also lived in Ballarat, Woomelang, Warracknabeal, Melbourne (again), Mildura and Melbourne (again).

What other jobs have you had?

Hospital orderly, telephone book proofreader, bookseller, website developer, editor, copywriter.

What themes are recurring in your work?

Ambition, defeat, obsessiveness, imagination, perception, reality. I’m particularly drawn to comedy and strangeness; most obviously in Spurt, but even in my books about Australian history I was always on the lookout for odd anecdotes or moments of humour, like the explorer who was shot by his own camel.

What have been the highlights of your career?

Getting published in Doctor Who fanzines when I was a teenager. Children’s Book Council of Australia ‘Notable Book’ listings for two of my non-fiction books, Who’s on the money? and Stuck on history. Getting to write the epic final Zac Power adventure. The publication of my first novel, Spurt: a balls and all story.

What are you passionate about?

Doctor Who. LEGO®. Anchovies on pizza. Oh, and I suppose the power of narrative to expand the consciousness and its awe-inspiring potential to foster empathy between all members of the human race.

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

I’m a dog person (though not literally).

 

Testimonials