Skye Melki-Wegner

Author, Curriculum Specialist

Skye is the author of YA fantasy books such as the Chasing the Valley trilogy and The Hush. She is an enthusiastic speaker who offers a variety of talks and writing workshops designed to spark students’ imaginations. Skye is the author of YA fantasy books such as the Chasing the Valley trilogy and The Hush.

What other jobs have you had?

Quite a few – especially when I was a student! Over the years, I’ve worked as a salesperson, a Teacher’s Aide, an English tutor and in various other odd jobs. I also worked in a cinema, which mostly involved making popcorn and then vacuuming it up again when customers inevitably used it to decorate the carpet.

What themes are recurring in your work?

I wrote Chasing the Valley while I was studying Human Rights Law at uni, so quite a few real-world issues influenced the story. Beneath the layers of magic and fantasy, the books deal with issues such as conflict, conscription, tyranny, rebellion and death. They also highlight the power of friendship, courage and sacrifice in the face of such adversity.

As my books are YA, they also deal with the idea of growing up and coming of age. My fantasy characters’ ability to control their magic often serves as a symbolic parallel for inner growth and emotional maturation.

What have been the highlights of your career?

Nothing means more to me than receiving emails and feedback from readers. It means so much to hear that my books are bringing enjoyment to people.

Where have your works been published?

So far, Chasing the Valley has been published in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Germany. The trilogy is also due to come out in Brazil and China. It’s lots of fun to see my work in different languages!

What are you passionate about?

Having been raised in a family of teachers, I’m passionate about promoting a love of reading, imagination and creativity amongst students. It’s such a thrill to share my enthusiasm for books with the next generation.

Haven’t I seen you before?

I’ve spoken at events such as the Melbourne Writers Festival (VIC) and Voices on the Coast (QLD). I’ve also been lucky enough to appear on ABC3 a couple of times, so you may have seen me getting a bucket of green slime dumped on my head!

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

You can find free Teachers’ Resources for my books here: www.skyemelki-wegner.com/teachers

They include information about the books’ themes, characters and literary devices, with activities suitable for the Australian Curriculum.

Testimonials