In Conversation ... with Elaine Ouston

     

In Conversation with 

Elaine Ouston

Tell us about your most recent publication. 

I have long been bothered by the amount of graffiti and other forms of destruction of public and private property I see and decided to write a book for children that would help them realise how wrong it is, how the person on the other end of their abuse feels and how they would feel if it was done to them or something or someone they loved.

The book is Fearless Friends- Graffiti Fighters. Hopefully, some will take the message on board.

Published @ MORRIS PUBLISHING AUSTRALIA

You can read more information and a review by author and school teacher Robert Favretto on the Morris Publishing Australia website: 

What do you enjoy most about the writing community?

I enjoy the encouragement and support writers, published or otherwise, give to each other. We are always there to share the moments, good or bad that occur. Being an author is full of highs and lows and having this support helps make it worthwhile.

What is the hardest aspect of promotion?

Getting others to believe in your book as much as you do is difficult. There are so many great choices out there for readers. Reaching your audience takes a lot of work. But it can be done. Blog sites like this one and their owners are valuable to authors. You have to spend as much time promoting it as you can and look for many avenues of promotion.

Why are writing workshops so valuable?

When aspiring writers ask me if I think workshops are necessary, I usually ask them if they would go to a doctor who had no training, just the desire to be a doctor.

No matter what you want to do in life, education is vital. Having a good imagination is not enough. To create a story that your reader will enjoy takes much knowledge of story structure and much more. There are so many things to learn. I went as far as getting a Masters of Letters in creative writing to make sure I had that knowledge but that is not necessary for all. The local writers’ centre and many other places offer valuable workshops and I urge aspiring writers to take their courses.

Have you had a fan moment and met somebody famous? Tell us about it.

I had the pleasure of meeting Australian author Matthew Reilly at a writers’ conference where I was speaking. We had a chat about how difficult it is to get started in the industry. Matthew couldn’t get a publisher to take his first book, Contest, so he self-published it. It was so successful that publishers were more than happy to take on his subsequent books.

So being rejected does not mean your books won’t be popular with readers. It is important that if you take the self-publishing route you make sure your book is professionally edited and created in a professional way as Matthew did.

 

Do you have any writing rituals you can share?

Getting writing time is difficult for most of us. I spend a lot of time on my computer editing and setting up books for others. I usually set a day for writing. I check emails at my office desk before I start then close the computer down until I finish my writing for the day.

I find that if I try to use the same computer and area for writing I am too distracted by emails etc. I have a laptop that I use to write, and I can move that to wherever I feel comfortable; another position in the office, the back verandah if the weather is nice or my comfortable recliner chair in the lounge if I need extra comfort. I don’t connect it to the internet so I can’t be distracted by emails etc.

Do you have a favourite character from your stories? Spill the beans and tell us about them. 

In this book, all the characters are close to my heart as I have used the personality and names of some of my grandchildren to create this story. Evie is an active and feisty child, and I had no trouble imagining how she would react in the situations in this story, so she became the main character.

How can we learn more about you? 

 

  

 

    

Thank you for joining In Conversation this week. Remember to always 

Dream Big ... Read Often.

In Conversation ... with Dimity Powell

   

In Conversation with 

Dimity Powell

Tell us about your most recent publication. 

Oswald Messweather is my latest publication, a picture book that acknowledges the presence of OCD in young children. Published by Wombat Books and stunningly illustrated by, Siobhan McVey, Oswald Dorian Constantine Messweather is a character who is easily overwhelmed by mess and disorder. Even the complexity of his own name is enough to set his legs jiggling and his palms itching with anxiety. To combat his unease, Oswald obsessively counts his take-everywhere pocket pals – his crayons. It is a compulsion he finds comforting but also extremely exhausting.

Oswald’s obsessive preoccupations distract him from everything and everyone else around him, until one day Oswald is encouraged to use his penchant for perfection and eye for detail in a class project. With the help of his crayons, Oswald’s classmates create something spectacular, which helps Oswald realise just how valuable he is in spite of his anxieties.

Oswald’s story is less of a cure for OCD rather more of a window of hope that despite debilitating mental conditions, fears and anxieties can be managed when their source is recognised and then employed with purpose to magnify ones strengths.

Oswald Messweather @ Wombat Books

Downloadable Teachers’ Notes: 

Downloadable Fun and Worksheets: 

What do you enjoy most about being a writer?

The freedom to be who you want to be and go wherever you wish to go, even if that place does not exist and you’re doing it through a made up character. I love the challenge of crafting unreal situations into believable adventures and moments in time that kids find more real than real life. That is the unqualified magic of storytelling: transporting readers into that magical plane of suspended belief. It’s what I adored about reading as a child and hope to continue to perpetuate for children.

How much research goes into your writing?

No matter how brief the story, be it a 32 page picture book, short story or novel with more grunt, I spend a massive amount of time researching bits and pieces. My more issued orientated picture book tales demand a certain amount of factual credence to ensure the characters and their stories ring true. I also love exploring the symbolism of names, numbers and colours each of which can add more depth to the layers or nuances of a story.

It’s my firm belief that authors are the most fortunate people in the world. I may not be able to actually perform brain surgery but I can talk you through some of the technicalities. I may never have actually travelled to the moon, but I can tell you what to expect. I’ve never actually flown on the back of a dragon (yet) but I can direct you to the best site to order your own dragon! Researching ones story opens up a world of understanding and knowledge that I would not have been exposed to in a ‘normal’ same everyday job. If I can learn something new every day, it’s been a good day and possibly a slow writing one – I can get a bit carried away.

Writers are sometimes influenced by things that happen in their own lives. Are you?

Most definitely! I think this is one of most important aspects to remember when penning your characters’ stories; draw from that amazing treasure chest of memories and experiences you’ve encountered throughout your life. Never underestimate the potency of past experiences even if you think they were the most boring things you’ve ever done. Chances are the emotions you felt at the time along with a myriad of other details such as smells and even peculiarities of the weather can be distilled into your story which will ultimately enhance its authenticity and believability. I love that I’m able to ‘cameo’ my own experiences and situations into fresh storylines. Many of my anthology short stories were born this way.

‘Some people believe ideas are born in our imaginations

but I think some of the best stories come

from life – and simply living it.’

Top tip/s for writers?

Oh I have a gazillion but the one I preach most loudly to scribes young and old is to READ! You’d be amazed how many picture book writers for example have never even stepped into a modern day library and picked up a picture book but want to write a publishable one first go. Reading allows a certain amount of information to osmose into your creative comprehension. You’ll gain a sense of what works well and what doesn’t, what is popular and what is lacking in the market. You don’t necessarily have to write what’s out there but you should understand who your audience is and what they are reading. Plus it’s fun and informative!

My other top tip is to be consistent. Write often, enquire frequently, and regularly connect to your tribe and your passion. Then keep on reading and writing and rewriting. One of my favourite quotes of all time is by Robin Williams: It took him 20 years to be an overnight success. It does well to remember this; that patience, tenacity and perseverance is just as important as talent. Don’t rush your writing just to see your name in print. Concentrate on writing the best story you can possibly write and be true and committed to your characters. The rest will follow.

Have you ever had a fan moment and met somebody famous? Tell us about it. 

I have a background in hospitality management and have worked in various hotel properties and resorts around the world including a stint in the luxury motor yachting industry so it’s fair to say I’ve met my fair share of famous people. I’m not that fazed by any of them and tend to go more google-eyed over Kid Lit royalty. However deep down, we’re all the same animals and when I’ve had the opportunity and good fortune to work or present alongside some of the most revered creators in the Kids’ Lit industry, I feel more of a deep respect and camaraderie as opposed to wobbly kneed swoon. I confess though that I still go a bit crae crae for A-ha; you know the best thing to come out of Norway in the 80s since anything! I first met them in 1986 and attended their concert again in 2020 just before the world shut down. Ahhhh….they can take on me any day…

Do you have a favourite character from your stories? Spill the beans and tell us about them. 

Oooh another tricky question because like all good mums, I don’t really have favourites although I do have a deep fondness for the little girl from The Fix-It Man. She was my first picture book character and although she has no name, she represents such hope and resilience and bravery during one of the most devastating times of her life, I can’t help but admire and love her and want to scoop her up in my arms. Her demeanour and affection towards her father and indeed life, is infectious and heart-warming.

I am rather fond of Pippa too, that plucky little pigeon who wouldn’t take no for an answer. I’d love to be her and fly away unheeded for a day or two.

There is a girl who appears in one of my award winning Short and Twisted short stories, Concrete Boots, who again is nameless but shows a complex combination of responses as she navigates her way through the grief of losing her baby sister. I admire her comical candour and frustrations because she reminds me a little bit of myself.

And finally mention must be made of Ozzie from Oswald Messweather, who has already found his way into the hearts of many young people. They seem to find powerful solace in Ozzie, recognising themselves in his struggle with anxiety and having to cope in uncomfortable overwhelming situations. Their interpretations of his story and ways of managing his distress have been unbelievably intuitive and heartening. When a character of mine imparts those kinds of reactions, it makes him all the more special to me, as well.

How can we learn more about you? 

     

  

 

   

  

Thank you for joining In Conversation this week. Remember to always 

Dream Big ... Read Often.

In Conversation ... with Mistie Dal Molin

 

In Conversation with 

Mistie Dal Molin

Tell us about your most recent publication. 

Rainbows from Poppy encourages important conversations, for children aged 3-7. It is a heart-warming, true story about my unforgettable Dad. This book explores the promise he made to our family before he died. The beautiful, watercolor illustrations ensure even the youngest readers will find solace during a difficult and confusing time.

It’s a valuable grief resource for parents, teachers, hospice staff and funeral directors and is available from Amazon, Book Depository and Booktopia.

You’ll find free resources, teacher notes and activity sheets on my website: There is an about me page there, and a contact form to book school visits or just say hello! I love reading your emails.

Top tip/s for writers?

• Read. Read a variety of books, not just the genre you write for.
• Be patient.
• Be consistent.
• Write what you know or write from the heart.
• Learn from others. Writers have a wealth of knowledge to share. The best authors have had their fair share of rejection and heartache. Learn from them. This is one of the reasons I love the kid lit industry so much - everyone is willing to help and support and share their wisdom and tips.

It’s really hard some days – know this and don’t give up!

What is the hardest aspect of being a writer?

Finding the alone time, especially as a Mum. Trying to squeeze quiet time in between all the awesome craziness that is life. Family admin, work, friends, sports … it can be hectic and quiet writing moments are few and far between. I really have to plan and schedule the dedicated time in and make it a priority, otherwise… LIFE HAPPENS!

Other than writing, what else do you love?

My girlfriends. We call or message each other anytime for anything. I’d be lost without them.

My beautiful golden retriever.

Vinegar on hot chips.

Chocolate.

Travelling

Serial Killer documentaries. I can’t help it. I love watching but then I get scared so I back them up with Disney movies.

Do you have a favourite character from your stories?

Definitely ‘Rocky’, my son in from Rainbows from Poppy. I wrote this book for him. His little personality comes through in their pictures and it was such an awesome process from start to finish. As a family, this was so special to watch unfold from the first roughs, to final book in hands. I just love seeing him as an illustration.

Five words that sum you up?

1. Family

2. Caring

3. Passionate

4. Happy

5. Dedicated

What writing resources would you recommend? 

I definitely recommend reading:

See Me Jump by Jen Storer and

On Writing by Stephen King.

I am loving the Girl and Duck world - the picture book course is fantastic.

Also, Creative Kids Tales and Georgie Donaghy’s ‘Invest The Write Way’ course, SCBWI, the Australian Writers Centre.

I also recommend following your favourite bloggers, authors and illustrators on social media. Subscribe to their newsletters to find out about their latest news and publications. Read their posts and comment - they write them for you!

How can we learn more about you? 

   

   

  

Thank you for joining In Conversation this week. Remember to always 

Dream Big ... Read Often.

In Conversation ... with Tabitha J Page

In Conversation with 

Tabitha J Page – Children’s Author

Tell us about your most recent publication. 

Firstly, thank you so much for having me.

I have four children’s books out in the world and my newest book, titled ‘I’m a Type One Kid’ was officially launched in February, 2021

‘I’m a Type One Kid’ is an illustrated book, which follows part of the journey that young Tina Thomas goes on when she begins to feel unwell and is diagnosed with Type One Diabetes. It then takes us through her everyday life with the condition and the feelings that some children go through after they are diagnosed. The story is told by the character, Tina and I think it is going to be a fabulous tool for any newly diagnosed child, their siblings, classmates and friends.

Shop Here!

What do you enjoy most about being a writer?

I write to support, empower and uplift those who read my books. I write about characters with a disability or long-term illness (four of my five books feature these characters). Why? I write these subjects because there are so many people who have these challenges, some visible and some not, and I want them to know that they are not alone. My most enjoyable moments are those when I hear that I have succeeded in this, that there is a child who I have helped to feel less alone. I always love these messages and emails.

What is the hardest aspect of being a writer?

I live with Chronic illness/autoimmune disease, so for me the hardest part of writing and of doing anything productive, is that I never know when I will have a high pain day or a flare day. I cannot plan anything in advance and can go weeks without being able to write a word. It messes with my ‘flow’ and getting into a rhythm. I also struggle with motivation when I have had a break due to health. It is awfully hard to get back into it again.

That aside, I think a lot of people struggle with rejection. Sometimes it is submitting to traditional publishers and getting many rejections back. Sometimes it is deciding to self-publish, when doing this, it is difficult if not impossible to get into bookstores.

There is also a feeling among non-writers (I have heard it myself) that if you self-publish, the work was not ‘good enough’ which is why the traditional publishers passed it up. Writers know that this is not always true. There are many reasons why you might not be picked up by traditional publishers.

Writers are sometimes influenced by things that happen in their own lives. Are you?

Absolutely, that is the whole reason I write the books and characters that I do.

I write about my own experiences with life, with health and with challenges I have experienced (my own or those close to me).

Have you ever had a fan moment and met somebody famous? Tell us about it.

I have met a few, but as we are talking about books and writing…. I have met John Marsden a few times and loved every second of it. When he does author talks locally, I make sure to attend. The last time I attended a talk by John Marsden, I was a week out from my first offline book launch and was so anxious that no one would show up. I was afraid I would look silly and be embarrassed.

My friend who attended with me told John that my launch was a week away and that I was panicking (cheers for that ha-ha). John was amazing and told me of a time when he was starting out, that he had a book signing in a bookstore and no one showed up. He told me a few other things, which I will not mention here, but I left feeling so much more confident and happier. It was a great pep talk.

Do you have any writing rituals you can share?

I must write in the same place. If I have to change my writing space, I struggle. The local café where I would go daily and write closed last year and try as I might, I could not concentrate to write anywhere else. I got used to writing at home, but it took a long time.

The other one is that I have a particular set of pens that I use. Luckily for me, I can get cheap refills for them (thanks, Officeworks 😊)

What writing resources would you recommend? 

My number one would be The Duck Pond, which is a Facebook Kid lit creators’ group. It is a subscription group, but it is worth the money. For a subscription, you get masterclasses and so much more. I did a zoom workshop run by Leigh Hobbs a few days ago and it was worth the whole subscription on its own. I highly recommend (and do often) the wonderful and supportive Duck Pond to all.

I also recommend Creative Kids Tales and the Kid Lit Vic conference in Melbourne. These are both amazing resources as well.

How can we learn more about you? 

   

  

Thank you for joining In Conversation this week. Remember to always 

Dream Big ... Read Often.

Book Review - Where The Crawdads Sing By Delia Owens

Where The Crawdads Sing

By Delia Owens

My Review: 
This book was so intriguing and had me captivated from the beginning. From the descriptive writing that allowed me to really visualise the marsh and surrounds, through to the lilt of accents attributed to characters. Kya has been a fighter her whole life. Left to fend for herself from a young age she takes comfort in the surrounding marsh and the wildlife and critters that live there. My heart ached for the injustices thrown at her, then soared for the moments of joy she experienced. As the story unfolded I was desperate for Kya to find her happiness. Instead she is charged with murder and faced with the wrath of a town that sees her as a worthless 'marsh girl'. Kya has fought to overcome hardship and adversity her whole life, but these charges see her in a fight for her life. I could not stop until I knew what became of her. 

Highly recommend if you like descriptive language, a strong feminine protagonist and characters that will stay with you after the end.

From Hachette (Corsair)

For years, rumors of the "Marsh Girl" have haunted Barkley Cove, a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. So in late 1969, when handsome Chase Andrews is found dead, the locals immediately suspect Kya Clark, the so-called Marsh Girl. But Kya is not what they say. Sensitive and intelligent, she has survived for years alone in the marsh that she calls home, finding friends in the gulls and lessons in the sand. Then the time comes when she yearns to be touched and loved. When two young men from town become intrigued by her wild beauty, Kya opens herself to a new life - until the unthinkable happens.

Geelong Writers Memoirs Anthology

 

 

Moments In Time

An Anthology of Memoirs

 

I attended the launch of the Geelong Writers Memoirs anthology last Friday evening. It was nervous occasion as I was the editor on this project. It was not a role I have done before and it was a great learning experience for me. Editing, proofreading, design for the front and back cover.The result? A successful launch at the Belmont library!

Moments In Time includes 32 contributors of mostly local writers. The stories selected for this anthology are all so personal and at times raw with emotion. The topics are so wide and varied. The breadth of life experiences are so rich that as you read along it is easy to get swept away. I often felt like I was having a history lesson in a most enjoyable way!

I would like to acknowledge and thank Mary Thompson for volunteering her time to capture just the right image on the front cover.
http://www.marythompson.com.au/

Great news - If you are interested in purchasing a copy you can! $25 (postage included)

Direct Deposit (preferred)
063551 10157327 (Surname as remitter)
Then email
melissawray@hotmail.com.au
with your personal/postage details

OR
Send a cheque with personal details/address to;
Geelong Writers
P.O Box 1306, Geelong, Vic, 3220.