In part two of this interview, author/illustrator Aura Parker speaks about her upcoming books, her agent, engaging kids with books and her top tips for those wanting to squeeze into the industry. Read or refresh you memory of Part 1 here. Cocoon is coming out this November, what can you tell us about this book? […]
Just Write For Kids is very excited to announce the very first illustrator competition; Reinventing the Look! We know just how lucky and blessed we are to be in the presence of so many amazingly talented Australian children’s book illustrators. And with Just Write For Kids now in its fifth year, it’s time to call […]
The Creative Kids Tales Story Collection, individual authors and illustrators, compiled by Georgie Donaghey, Creative Kids Tales, October 2017. You’ll find a marvellous collection of short stories and poems in this multi-faceted mix derived from forty emerging authors and illustrators under the Creative Kids Tales association. Founder, Georgie Donaghey, has neatly packaged this anthology with […]
The Catawampus Cat, Jason Carter Eaton (author), Gus Gordon (illus.), Penguin Random House, 2017 When I first received this delightful picture book I thought the author, Jason Carter Eaton, had made up the word “catawampus” to suit the story’s feline character, and to have some fun. While fun definitely is had in a reading of […]
I’m still buzzing after a day of encouragement, empowerment and energy. A day filled with camaraderie, connections and reverence. KidLitVic Meet the Publishers Conference 2017 in Melbourne on May 20th certainly achieved its goals for attendees to network, showcase talents, and “kick-start, build, reinvigorate and strengthen” our creative journeys. Conference organisers, Alison Reynolds, Coral Vass, Jaquelyn […]
Aleesah Darlison is the dynamic force behind this wonderful new initiative in providing critical support to creators and small businesses. The award-winning author and presenter kindly shares with us the logistics of her blossoming resource, Greenleaf Press. Thanks, Aleesah! Congratulations on your newest venture with Greenleaf Press! What is your vision for this service and […]
The title of this article might seem a misnomer given the physical stature of both Margaret Wild and Julie Vivas, however there is no doubt about their giant status in the picture book world. It was an absolute pleasure to hear them speak in conversation with Belinda Murrell at the CBCA Northern Sydney sub-branch Christmas […]
Are you an aspiring or emerging children’s book author? Not too sure of what you have to do? How do you write that opening sentence? What is a story board? Do I need one? How do I work with an illustrator? Do I need to find one? What are agents looking for? The answers to […]
In my first interview with children’s author Lesley Gibbes (see it here) the standout messages for me were: The importance of: Reading good literature Playing around in the literary space (writing skits, plays, even telling stories through dance) Attending courses and building connections Hard work and perseverance. This is Part 2 of my interview with Lesley […]
In the last two posts on picture books, I explored what makes a successful book, and how best to utilise them. Today I’m reflecting on some past interviews with the very writers of those wonderful pieces of art, and more specifically, what creating these literary jewels means to them. Which responses resonate most with you? […]
