Anton Clifford-Motopi
Anton writes funny stories for children that explore themes of self-identity, belonging, family relationships and friendship, drawing from his experiences of being black with light skin, growing up in a large adoptive family and raising four children.
Meet the Speaker
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?
My other job is a researcher in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. I have also worked as a university lecturer, high school teacher, store person, and a waiter in a seafood restaurant.
What themes are recurring in your work?
My books have a central character who is navigating their self-identity and relationships with family and friends. Written with a healthy dose of humour.
What have been the highlights of your career?
One highlight was To and Fro being shortlisted for the 2025 CBCA Younger Readers Book of the Year award. Special highlights have been receiving correspondence from kids telling me how much they enjoyed reading To and Fro and thanking me for writing a book that represented them.
Where have your works been published?
To and Fro and Stuck in the Middle are published in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about writing funny and thought provoking stories for children about family and friends set in the real world.
I am also passionate about racial equity and justice, basketball, boxing, the theatre, and homemade peanut butter.
Haven’t I seen you before?
Possibly! I present at writers festivals and schools and occasionally post something on Instagram. I also work as a researcher for the University of Queensland and have my photo on their website.
Anything else you’d like to share with us?
I have three daughters, one son and one granddaughter.
Sessions
Identity Journey
Who am I? Where do I come from? These are two big questions that Sam in ‘To and Fro,’ tries to answer on his journey of...
Using Humour in Storytelling
To and Fro is meant to be a funny book about growing up mixed race in Australia and identity and belonging. Anton will read...
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