Justin D’Ath

Author

Justin D’Ath is the author of over 30 books for children and young adults, but is best known for his hugely successful Extreme Adventure series, which are particularly popular with boys and reluctant readers.

Where were you born?

I was born in a small town in New Zealand and grew up on a farm, before moving to Australia aged 17. I now live in Queenscliff, Victoria.

What other jobs have you had?

When I first came to Australia I studied to be a missionary priest. But I gave up after three years and traveled around Australia doing various jobs – on farms, in factories, in sugar mills, in an iron mine and picking fruit. For many years I taught professional writing at TAFE before becoming a full-time author.

What themes are recurring in your work?

Wildlife and conservation issues feature in many of my books, but they never get in the way of a cracking good story. (My principle motivation as a children’s author is to write books that children will enjoy.)

What have been the highlights of your career?

Getting emails from parents thanking me for introducing their reluctant-reader sons to the joys of books.

Where have your works been published?

My books have been published is several countries other than Australia – Italy, France, Germany, UK, USA, Brazil, Korea and Denmark.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about the environment and wildlife.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I lost my house in the Black Saturday bushfires and now live near the sea (and am worried about tsunamis!).