Favel Parrett

Author

Favel Parrett is the author of Past the Shallows, which was shortlisted for the Miles Franklin Literary Award in 2012. Her latest novel, When the Night Comes, took her to Antarctica by ship and was the trip of a lifetime.

Her research for her latest book makes for fascinating reading. Favel underwent many medical and psychological tests to ensure she could travel to the Antarctic. One of the particular strengths of her writing is her ability to describe the physical sensation of being in this extreme environment – of walking across Antarctic snow for the first time and of the wonder of encountering the vast white landscape.

Favel has also had many short stories published in journals and anthologies, such as Best Australian Short Stories, Meanjin, Griffith Review, and Island.

Where were you born?

Melbourne.

What other jobs have you had?

Postman (post woman).

What themes are recurring in your work?

The ocean, siblings, the fragility of youth.

What have been the highlights of your career?

When Past the Shallows was so well received, and won awards. Also getting the Antarctic Arts Fellowship which let me work at sea (a dream come true).

Where have your works been published?

Australia, Germany, US, UK, Czech Republic, Denmark, Italy.

What are you passionate about?

The Southern Ocean, dogs, surfing, being at sea, reading, writing, imagination and day-dreaming.