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R

Total books written: 1
Ages of readership:
Most typical wordcount per book:

Countries published in: Australia

Movie rights, merchandise or other exciting offshoots: n/a

Title of Featured Book: The Secret Cat
Blurb: A poetic cat anecdote that illustrates a day in the life of a
>quirky, old tortioseshell moggie.

Place where your book is set: A house in Brisbane

Genre(s):Picture Book

Extract from an independent review:

"The elegant prose-poetry text invites
>repeated readings. This is enhanced and supported by the story told in the
>accompanying photographic images." Donna Lee Brien, Dotlit - The Online
>Journal of Creative Writing, 20/11/2003
>http://www.dotlit.qut.edu.au/reviews/secretcat.html

What's the inside info about your life as a writer?
love

Do you have another job as well as being a writer?

I am a freelance writer based in Brisbane and love writing about our big old country town,
>especially its local history. I also write movie and book reviews and am
>passionate about reviewing Brisbane's local music, performance and art
>scene. In the last couple of years, I have had the luxury of being able to
>pursue a writing career and am regularly published in a variety of street
>press.

Why do you love to write?

Because it's addictive and a great way to share
>ideas and inform people.

What inspired you to write your book (or series which includes this book)

Initially I wanted to write a poem that illustrated a day in the life of my
>cat because she's such a funny old character!

What surprised you during research, writing or publishing of this book?
The wonderful feeling as I watch people crack a smile and have a chuckle
>when they flip through 'The Secret Cat'.

If students are doing assignments on this book, what special insight into
symbolism, metaphors, choice of title, characters or research can you
provide:

You could read all kinds of meaning from the text and say it's a rather
>stereotypical depiction of feline character traits. Essentially my
>intention was to stimulate the imagination and entertain.

Secret writing tip for students:

Read heaps and jot down your ideas as
>soon as you get them.

Personal pet peeves:

Sometimes people won't always understand/appreciate
>what you are trying to do and merely criticise unconstructively which can
>be upsetting.

When you were aged 8 to 15, what job(s) did you think you would have (if not a writer):

A kindergarten teacher or a vet.

What you're working on next: A creative non-fiction book about Spring Hill

Are you available for paid school visits at ASA rates?: Yes

Are you blue-card approved to conduct school visits in Qld: Yes

Are you available for free school visits in your local area during book launch months?: Yes

Is your computer/internet connection set up to do online chats?: Yes

Do you speak/webchat in any languages other than English?: No