Writing for kids is one of the most enjoyable things I’ve ever done. I love being transported to a simpler, brighter place where adult problems fade into the background and you see the world through the eyes of a child again. I’ve taken a bit of a break from fiction while writing educational books and …
I’ve never been to Portugal or Taiwan – but in a weird kind of way, part of me is there now. I was delighted to learn that my Hopeless Heroes books have been published in other languages! My time travelling main character, Tim Baker, is now being read in more countries around the world. My wonderful …
I’m so excited to be going to the Hong Kong Book Fair next week. Come and see us at the Sweet Cherry Publishing stand at 3B-D16, and enjoy a taste of Ancient Greece in South East Asia! I’m looking forward to meeting Greek mythology fans, both big and small, and seeing some gorgeous children dress …
My wonderful publisher Sweet Cherry Publishing has arranged a blog tour for the release of my new children’s books. Based on Greek mythology, the Hopeless Heroes series is an action-packed adventure full of heart and giggles. Suitable for ages 7 – 10, the books are being released on 22 February this year. Have a look at …
The best thing about writing for children is getting to see through their eyes again. Once you’re an adult, it’s all too easy to forget how astonishing the world used to be. We’ve seen so much that we tend to get jaded. But when you’re a kid, everything is fresh and sharp and startling. I feel …
The theme of the Children’s Book Council of Australia Book Week this year was ‘Escape to Everywhere’. It felt very appropriate for me personally, as I drove to areas unknown to visit a couple of lovely schools. I left the bustle of Sydney’s inner South and found myself driving along country roads lined with trees …
Who would you take with you if you ran away from home? It’s a question many children ask themselves at least once – and something I suspect their parents occasionally ponder too! The picture book Without Me? asks the question in a way that young children instantly identify with. It’s a light-hearted story about a …
I’ve discovered that submitting a second book to your publisher can be even more nerve-wracking than sending the first. The first time you approach a publisher, you’re kind of expecting rejection. You’ve steeled yourself for it, often through long and hard experience. But the second time, a whole new set of worries suddenly appears. Do …
Twelve-year-old twins Jack and Jaide lead ordinary lives, until a visit from their father sparks a storm that makes their home explode around their ears. They are sent to stay with a grandmother they’ve never heard of, in an isolated town that at first seems dull. They discover it is anything but! The twins suspect …
The first glimpse of a book’s front cover is thrilling for authors. Suddenly it all starts to feel real. I’m happy I can now share my excitement with you! Mike the Spike will soon be released by New Frontier Publishing as part of their Little Rockets series. You can download free teachers’ notes and classroom activities …
Stella Tarakson 