Sue Lawson ~ Author

Queenie Launch...

2012-01-28T14:51:00.000+11:00

It's been a rather big week, but I've found a few moments to add pictures from last week's Queenie: One Elephant's Story launch at the Melbourne Zoo. It was a terrific, though hot, afternoon to honour a wonderful story, a delightful author and gentle creature.
Enjoy this handful of pictures.

A replica of Queenie's cake

The orginal Queenie cake baker.

Corinne and Hon. Ryan Smith, Minister for the Environment.

Queenie: One Elephant's Story, cake Queenie and cake debris

Maryann Ballantyne and Corinne Fenton

Queenie's going paperback!

2012-01-16T20:08:00.000+11:00

One of my favourite picture books is Queenie: One Elephant's Story, written by a dear friend Corinne Fenton, and illustrated by Peter Gouldthorpe. Needless to say, I'm THRILLED that Queenie is going paperback.

Queenie: One Elephant's Story is the beautiful, touching and heartbreaking story about Queenie the Elephant who for over forty years gave children rides around the Melbourne Zoo.

This Sunday at 2pm Minister for the Environment, The Hon. Ryan Smith will launch the first paperback edition of Queenie’s unforgettable story at Melbourne Zoo.

Sunday is a perfect day to visit the zoo, and for the cost of zoo entry, you'll not only experience all the wonders Melbourne Zoo has to offer, BUT you can be part of the launch of this simply beautiful book. Bargain I say!

And you can eat cake and chocolate elephants too!!

Not convinced?

Then listen to Corinne herself talk about Queenie and her story on Thursday, January 19.

Corinne will be joining 3RRR's Summer Breakfasters at 8.45am Thursday for a chat. (Fear not! If you're unable to pick up 3RRR - can listen here! They stream live on-line.)

Later Thursday morning, at 11am, Corinne with be on 774 ABC Melbourne's Conversation Hour to talk about Queenie and Sunday's launch. Again, 774 Melbourne streams live, so you can listen on line, or check out the podcast after Thursday.

So that's me sorted - Thursday glued to the computer listening on-line to Corinne, then a trip to the zoo Sunday to be part of the Queenie: One Elephant's Story launch.

Hope to see you there!

A Week Away

2012-01-16T09:13:00.000+11:00

Last week, while my daughter slaved at VCE Summer classes, my husband and I hung out in Melbourne, playing tourist. Sure, Melbourne is hardly new to us, we spend every second weekend there - and that's not counting the school visits - but it's rare the two of us are in the city together. After a little over a week of traipsing the city with my new camera, catching up with family and friends and eating way too much, I've come home refreshed and inspired.

Things I am grateful for this year...

2011-12-31T16:52:00.001+11:00

I'm not a big one for new year celebrations. I try (!) to approach each day, and if desperate, each hour as a fresh beginning, rather than seeing the changing of years as a time to make changes. I say try, as it doesn't always work.

No matter what my day has been like, I take time each evening to reflect on things I am grateful for. I decided on New Year's Eve I should reflect on just a few of the writerly things I am grateful for in 2011.

Generosity, laughter and support from friends and family

Enthusiastic and supportive students and teachers.

Melbourne Writer's Festival Regional Tour

Supportive & generous fellow children's and y.a. authors and bloggers.

Talented and hardworking editors - Mab!

New editions and new books

Time and a place to write

Inspiration

And then there are all the incredible things in my non-professional life that I am truly grateful for...

I am a very lucky person.

Wishing you much peace, happiness and abundance in 2012.

Surely not!

2011-12-30T16:09:00.000+11:00

Christmas 2011 was terrific for us - time with family, friends, laughs and delicious food and drink. Now I'm ready to return to writing and - ahem - less food.
In fact, so determined am I to return to a slower lifestyle, we took down our Christmas tree today.

So I guess Christmas is done and dusted for another year, which is lucky as check out what greeted me at the supermarket earlier this afternoon...

Yep - an entire display of Easter stuff.

REALLY? It's still December people!

Sigh...

A huge thank you!

2011-12-22T14:21:00.000+11:00

Phew - the Pan's Whisper Blog Tour is done and dusted.
Enormous thanks to Jenny at Walker Books and the fabulous bloggers who have been so warm, welcoming and generous.
Claire Saxby - Let's Have Words
Emma - Bookseller's NZ
Shirely Marr - Books on Mars
Steph Bowe -Hey! Teenager of the Year
Sue Whiting - All in the Telling
Dee White - Kids' Book Capers
Michael Earl- Little Elf Man's Random Thoughts
Anna - Cherry Banana Split
I've had a fantastic time and hope you've enjoyed it too!
Merry Christmas generous bloggers and here's to a ripper 2012!

I have bird issues! My new bird for my Christmas tree.

All aboard! Last stop on the Pan's Whisper Blog Tour...

2011-12-21T19:59:00.001+11:00

Okay, so stops.
Today I'm visiting two places at once, because I can! I'm at Cherry Banana Split and Perth YA Fans Unite where I talk about the music I listen to when I write, developing characters and a few of my favourite Australian Young Adult novels.
Thanks to the lovely Anna for her brilliant questions.
Make sure you visit Perth YA Fans Unite to find out how you can win a copy of Pan's Whisper.

And yep,I'm late in blogging about this one, but hey, they are both WA blogs, so really, it's early afternoon!

Shakespeare and a Russian Blue with Sue

2011-12-20T08:14:00.000+11:00

Today I stop in on a friend, colleague and someone I respect and admire, Sue Whiting. We have come across each other since we started writing at about the same time. The lovely thing is we're now working together.

So drop by and visit Sue's blog, All In The Telling and see how Shakespeare and a Russian Blue Cat have influenced Pan's Whisper.

Week Two of the blog Tour...

2011-12-19T09:06:00.000+11:00

Visiting the amazing Michael today at Little Elf Man
Had a ball answering Michael's questions and reading his responses this morning.

Thanks Michael!!

Go West...

2011-12-15T08:52:00.000+11:00

The Pan's Whisper Blog tour stops in on the amazing Shirley Marr today. Read a review of Pan, check out Shirley's questions about the novel and enter for your chance to win a copy of Pan's Whisper!

Blog Tour - Day Three

2011-12-14T09:48:00.000+11:00

Today I'm stopping at Kids' Book Capers where Dee White has reviewed Pan's Whisper. Thanks Dee!

Blog tour Continues...Happy Birthday Hamish!

2011-12-13T10:07:00.000+11:00

Today on the Pan's Whisper Blog Tour, I talk characters with Emma at Booksellers New Zealand.

And it's my nephew's 6th birthday - what a day!!

Blog Tour!

2011-12-12T10:24:00.000+11:00

Join me today at Claire Saxby's blog Let's Have Words where I answer questions about grandparents, names and stalking!

Of Launches and Blog Tours

2011-12-08T18:14:00.000+11:00

It's all happening!
Tomorrow night we officially launch Pan's Whisper at 6pm at the Little Bookroom, Nicholson St North Carlton. Would love to see you there!
Next week I start a two week blog tour visiting fantastic blogs to talk about Pan's Whisper, the writing process, crazy notebooks and even grandparents.
Take a break from the Christmas madness and spend a few minutes at one of these fantastic blogs.

Mon Dec 12	Claire Saxby	http://www.letshavewords.blogspot.com/
Tues Dec 13	Emma McCleary	http://booksellersnz.wordpress.com/
Wed Dec 14	Dee White	http://deescribewriting.wordpress.com/
Thurs Dec15	Shirley Marr	http://shirleymarr.net/news/
Fri Dec 16	Steph Bowe	http://heyteenager.blogspot.com/
Mon Dec 19	Michael Earp	http://littleelfman.blogspot.com/
Tues Dec 20	Sue Whiting	http://www.suewhiting.blogspot.com/
Wed Dec 21	Anna Dolin	http://cherrybananasplit.blogspot.com/

Pan's Whisper and Forget Me Not.

2011-11-24T13:34:00.000+11:00

I was doing my grocery shopping when a lady I know stopped to congratulate me on my new book. At first I was a little stunned. How did she know I was doing the final edits on my next book?
Then it dawned on me she meant Pan's Whisper, which has just come out and is about to be launched. I quickly regrouped and thanked her for her support, and explained why I was slow to react.
The writing process is a long one and quite often when a book is released, authors are up to their necks in their next work. That's why we can appear a little vague when you are kind enough to comment.

While I'm doing bits and pieces for the launch of Pan's Whisper, I'm working also with my editor on my next book, which is due out in April, 2012. This book is called Forget Me Not - more about it later.
In the meantime, it's time to launch the one I finished work on about five months ago.
If you are free December, 9, I'd love to see you at our launch for Pan's Whisper, and I promise not to be vague!

Join us for on

Friday, December 9, 6pm

The Little Bookroom,

759 Nicholson Street, Carlton North

when Karen Tayleur launches

Sue Lawson's latest YA novel

Pan's Whisper.

Time to take stock...

2011-11-15T13:29:00.000+11:00

This morning when I sat at my desk, I looked out the window and marvelled at the beauty of the day.
And then I thought of friends, reeling after a heartbreaking tragedy on the weekend.
Six lives, gone.
Countless friends and families devastated.
A cruel, cruel accident that is impossible to comprehend.
Life is fickle and heartbreaking and again I am reminded of the importance of gratitude and of making the most of every moment.
I am grateful for:
my daughter's laugh
blue skies
my husband's sense of humor
honey eaters resting on the fence outside my window
my niece's wicked giggle
my friends
my family
my home
my life...

Notes from the weekend...

2011-10-31T14:52:00.000+11:00

Karen Tayleur, Corinne King and Bernadette Kelly

While many people spent this long weekend (in Victoria) sweating over what to wear to the Melbourne Cup or camping, or gardening, I travelled to a peaceful country home to spend the weekend writing, sharing and laughing with dear friends.

Today I've been working my way through my 'things to follow-up' list - emailing links, investigating booksellers, making phone calls, updating files, tweaking manuscripts and grinning at jokes that drift back at unexpected moments.

So many things were confirmed, learnt and shared over such a short space of time.

Hummingbird cake tastes even better when shared with friends.
My friends' generosity has no limits.
Eugene, mooching and moths had to go.
Wood heaters are particularly effective.
Book launches are important.
Talking helps ease pain and burdens.
Feedback is invaluable.
Dongles are...well, just dongles!
Each of us approaches our craft in unique ways.
Friends are truly life's treasures.
Hearing about and looking at pictures of African horse-riding safaris and Australian 4wd holidays has given me itchy feet.
Always wear shoes if trekking in the dark to an outside toilet. (Snails don't squish, they scrunch and slime under your foot! Perhaps that is the real reason for my itchy feet!)
Four laptops charging at once doesn't cause a power grid meltdown.
And - I can't wait for our next weekend away!


Pan's Whisper and my 'welcome Pan' gift.

Busy, busy, busy...

2011-10-09T17:19:00.000+11:00

There has been so much going on during September and October - school visits, finishing off two books, family stuff, footy finals (sniff..) and catching up with friends. Life has been terrific, but crazy hectic.
Pan's Whisper is out and the first review is terrific, which is always a relief and something to be grateful for.

During the school holidays I have been busy with edits on Forget Me Not, which will be released around January (more to come later) and my darling husband has been creating a bright new website for me. Have a peek - same old address, but a fresh new look. Love to hear your thoughts.

I'm planning on blogging on my site, so will abandon this blog soon. Look forward to seeing you there.

Day Five - Melbourne Writers' Festival - Regional Tour.

2011-09-04T12:56:00.001+10:00


Great start!

Okay, so strictly speaking, I'm home and the Regional Tour ended two days ago, but I haven't blogged about our last day in Frankston.
Talks and workshops were held in the Performing Arts Centre and the Frankston library, where I worked with tremendous Yr 5/6 students in the 'long room' (not to be confused with the MCC long room!).
The students were fantastic and we covered beginnings and ends and lots in between. The visit was a great way to wrap up a rewarding week. How lucky am I to have had the opportunity to work with Heath McKenzie, Kirsty Murray, Chris Morphew, the unflappable Patrick Cronin and the students and staff from Kyneton, Drysdale, Wangaratta and Frankston? Thank you!

Miscellaneous Highlights:

Enthusiastic, interested students and teachers.
Smooth travels and sessions - thanks to Patrick and the organisers.
Cess pit photo opportunity by the Hume.
Kirsty and Heath's Twilight and Harry Potter discussion.
Dinner at Jack and Jill's Geelong.
Kirsty Murray's incredible intellect and generosity.
Heath McKenzie's humour, observations and discoveries in road houses.
Chris Morphew's humour, passion and willingness to sit in the back seat!
Showing off an a stage (hard to believe but true!)
Indian food in Wang.
iPads
sunshine!

On a Frankston Library shelf...

Day Four - Melbourne Writers' Festival Regional Tour

2011-09-01T20:55:00.000+10:00

This amazing gumtree was on the nature strip outside our motel. The branch scoops down to the footpath, and appears to be the perfect spot to sit and watch the Wangaratta traffic go by.
Our sessions today were at the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre - a terrific venue. The children from local schools were so enthusiastic, fun and clever. They even laughed at the right bits - and honestly I didn't mean to nearly kill my brother - how were we to know chasing mice in the barn would make him puff up like a balloon? Sorry Anthony!

Heath and I gave today's talks on the stage, and both of us admitted that being in such a great venue, on a stage made us show off, just a little more!
Thank you to everyone - Jemma, Loueen etc etc, for making our visit so much fun!

Patrick our fantastic guide who has made the trip so easy and smooth and Heath checking out Indian beer at dinner last night. Great food - good beer!

Day 3 - Melbourne Writers' Festival Regional Tour

2011-08-31T15:25:00.000+10:00


Me, Chris Morphew and Kirsty Murray

Today we traveled from Geelong to Wangaratta for an evening session tonight and talks tomorrow.
Highlights of our trek -
- photo opportunities by a cess pool (see Chris Morphew's blog!)
- the merits of iPads for authors
- road house coffee
- the scenic route around town
- a restored Vauxhaul (which brought back memories of family incidents - good and bad.)
- a patient driver
-good company and laughter.
Looking forward to tonight's session about Australian stories...

Day 2 - Melbourne Writers' Fesitval Regional Tour

2011-08-30T16:39:00.000+10:00

...of potatoes, vampires and Harry P...

A huge thank you to the Geelong Regional Library and Drysdale Potato Shed staff for a full, but fantastic day of sessions. Drysdale is a favourite haunt of mine where school visits are always fabulous, and today was no exception. We covered ends and beginnings (even though I couldn't spell beginnings this morning - who knows what was going on there!), inspiration and planning and even touched on gastro (they asked for it!).

Thank you to all the students for laughing at the right times, listening, sympathising about Dale Thomas' 2 week ban and asking great questions.

Kirsty and Chris's discussion about the merits of Harry Potter and Twilight was a highlight. Special hi to the Warrnambool crew from Emmanuel!

Photos to come - thanks Heath! Struggling with internet connection at our motel. I'm currently ensconsed in the library.

Tomorrow we travel to Wangaratta for an adult session and more talks.

Day One - Melbourne Writer's Festival Regional Tour

2011-08-29T17:48:00.000+10:00

Today was the first day of the Melbourne Writer's Festival Regional Tour, with the fantastic Patrick Cronin, who is keeping us in line.

Our first visit was to Kyneton where Kirsty Murray, Chris Morphew, Heath McKenzie and I ran workshops and talks in the Town Hall. What a sensational building and what amazing supportive staff - thank you!
Students from Candlebark and Kyneton Secondary College attended and were full of great ideas and enthusiasm. My group created characters - some deranged, others lonely and a few homicidal - the characters, not the students!

Tomorrow it's on to Drysdale, a truly lovely part of the state. Naturally I've told the others how wonderful the place and the students are. Wish we had time for a visit to Loam. Now that is a restaurant to visit!

Of libraries...

2011-08-02T11:18:00.001+10:00

It's a no brainer. I'm an author and I love books. I have five bulging bookcases to prove it.
Apart from loving books, I have a vested interest in them again as an author and as a teacher, so it's not surprising I've ranted about the importance of bookshops, school libraries and school librarians before. All are essential. Full stop!
A new threat to books has emerged, and frankly, I'm as mad as hell about it.
The Victorian Government plans to cut funding to public libraries.What is the deal with that? (Yes, I am shouting!)
Isn't it enough that school libraries are shrivelling? That access to books, particularly in regional areas, is diminishing? And wasn't one of the key arguments for cutting school library funding that students could access books and information at the local library?
Okay - breathe - in and out.
There are plenty are reasons why libraries are vital and why funding should be at the very least maintained, which you can access here, so I won't rehash them, suffice to say, libraries are vital.
Not convinced? Visit your local library and just notice the activity.
Every Monday evening, while my daughter is being tortured (piano lessons - her choice, mind you!) I go to the local library to study for forty-five minutes and borrow books. The place is always buzzing - people reading newspapers, borrowing books, accessing the Internet, reading to their children, studying or just chatting. The age range of those there is enormous.
Compare that to the myriad of vacant and unused 'projects' that governments and councils have poured money into. Put simply, money spent on libraries is money well spent.
Let's hope sanity prevails and that funding is at the very least maintained.

Like our school libraries, public libraries are vital - please offer your support.
Facebook page - Save Our Libraries
Join the Save Our Libraries - Fairer Funding Campaign.

Rant over!

Inge - An inspiration...

2011-07-27T19:19:00.001+10:00

Yesterday I attended my dear friends' mother and mother-in-law's funeral. The first time I met Inge, about 27 years ago,I was struck by her warmth, generosity and strength. She was such a genunine woman. When she asked how you were, she truly wanted to hear the answer.
As I grew to know her better and witness her in action as a mother, mother-in-law and grandmother, I discovered bits and pieces about her past, but none of these she ever mentioned herself. Her family shared her stories. Some of the stories were hysterical. Others broke my heart. Yet, I can't remember her ever complaining, though I know she would have. She was, after all, human. She never even hinted at the pain she had endured.
Inge and her husband fled their homes during World War II and then their country. Displaced, they arrived in Australia with very little, if anything. Inge had tremendous empathy for refugees.
Through hard work and love, she and her husband created a loving home for their family, and yesterday that love shone through. Of course there were tears, but there was incredible love, warmth and gratitude for this inspirational woman. Knowing Inge, albeit only a little, I understand why.
She wasn't a large woman, but her heart was huge and the impact she had on those she met simply enormous.
I shall miss hearing the stories about Inge's latest struesel or knowing that she will be fussing over my godson and his gorgeous sister when they need it, but, like them, I am all the richer for having met Inge.
Our almond tree burst into blossom, yesterday.

St Brendan's Dunnstown and term three.

2011-07-25T11:35:00.001+10:00

Friday I travelled to St Brendan's Dunnstown, about ten west of Ballarat, and spent the day working with students from Dunnstown, Gordon, Springbank and Clarke's Hill. Even though the weather was bleak, the kids more than made up for it.
I had a sensational day - caught up with old friends from teachers' college, met Ally the friendly kelpie and worked with fun and switched on people. Plus - lunch! Yum.

Three of the girls, Jade, Tara and Gabby, presented me with a lovely card they'd made. The pictures are of the front and inside. Thanks girls, it's going on my office wall.

Term Three is always a big one, and this year is no different.
August 11 - Reading session, Ballarat
Book Week - St Roberts, Newtown, Westbourne Grammar, Armadale Primary, Montmorency Secondary College and Mater Christi College.
August 29 - Sept 3 - Melbourne Writer's Festival, Writers on the Road (Wangaratta, Kyneton, Geelong and Frankston)
September 8 - Timboon P -12
Sept 13 - Mercy Regional College, Camperdown
Sept 20 -21 - Christian College, Geelong.
Plus...the Online Literature Festival.
That should keep me out of mischief for a while!
.

Harry Potter - 'tis done.

2011-07-14T09:03:00.001+10:00

Armed with a sleeping bag and sustenance, my daughter went to the midnight screening of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2. She is a massive Harry Potter fan, having read the books about 'twenty times each' she thinks, and watched each of the movies about the same number of times. She came home from the film both sad and thrilled. Sad that the story had come to an end, but thrilled with the final film.

So, last night I trundled off to watch it myself, filled with a little trepidation for two reasons. One, I had cried buckets when I read the book (the Snape bit and when Harry is about to enter the Forbidden Forest) - how was I going to cope with the film? And two, I was worried the film wouldn't live up to all the hype.
I needn't have worried. I loved the film and yes, I cried at the same spots (I'm being cryptic just in case you've managed to avoid all spoilers).
After the movie, I've reflected on not only the film makers', actors' etc skill, but again at the imagination and talent of JK Rowling. What an amazing story filled with tremendous characters.
Harry Potter and co will stay with us for generations not only in film, but most importantly, in books.
My daughter is going to make her kids read the whole series - before they see the DVDs. Children are a long way off in her grand plan, so I'm going to hold her to that assertion!

Zenyatta Mondatta

2011-07-12T14:31:00.000+10:00

I was hanging out in a bookshop, as I do, when my youth came rushing back at me in a burst of sound bites.

Roxanne - cassette player perched on my knee taping Countdown.
Message in A Bottle - Year 10 social - white vest and blue skirt. Dead Ants.
Walking On the Moon - back in front of Countdown, cassette player held to the TV speaker, scowling if my family threatened to talk, move or breathe.
Driven to Tears - drive home from MCG after the 1980 Grand Final. Enough said.
De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da - detention (writing lines) for mucking up in Modern History. (Again)
Spirits In The Material World - late night HSC study. Pine trees outside my window.
King Of Pain - morning after a College ball.
Can't Stand Losing - Melbourne Showgrounds. Synchronicity Tour.

Had to have that book! On to the YA section and another barrage of memories.

Wooden schools desks, brown knee high socks and games on the school steps.
Mrs Phillip's voice filling the classroom as she read A Wrinkle In Time.
Metal balcony rails. The teacher's Great Dane padding by.
Lounging on the courtyard lawn in the sun, baby oil coating our legs.
Reading in front of the open fire, pausing only to look up at Tommy Hafey or Peter Moore on World of Sport.
Marking lambs, wearing Mum's gumboots, while being battered by icy wind.
Crying when I finished The Outsiders (How I loved Pony Boy and Soda) again.

Books and music have always been a major part of my life, so I guess it's not surprising that my memories are tightly woven through them.
I wonder what memories Powderfinger, Graffiti Moon and This Is Shyness will evoke in the future.

Tousle Me Gently Dog.

2011-06-24T10:08:00.000+10:00

Milly the Cavoodle pads into the family room. I reach down to pat her.
'Milly feels soft.'
'Hmmm,' agrees husband. 'Soft and tousled.'
Dog snuffles to daughter and leaps onto her lap. 'Milly actually smells good. What did you wash her with?'
Husband/father shrugs and offers a 'durrr' face. 'Shampoo.'
'Thought we were out of dog shampoo,' says daughter.
Husband wiggles eyebrows.
In the shower this morning, I reached for the shampoo. The Tousle Me Gently bottle is empty. Apparently it works on dog's too!

A Break From Editing

2011-06-22T16:18:00.000+10:00

I took a break from editing today and visited Inverleigh Primary School. What a gorgeous group of kids. Bright, enthusiastic, funny and a complete delight to work with. We worked on ideas, how to develop an idea into a story and how to make the starts sparkle. Thank you to the staff and students for the opportunity.
As always, there were lots of laughs. I showed the younger students an overseas edition of My Gran's Different and asked them to guess where it was published. One child suggested the country could be South Snot. Close - but no cigar...the answer I was looking for was South Korea. Made us all laugh though!
Now it's back to editing - we're still playing around with titles. Stayed tuned!

Dalai Llama

2011-06-15T21:09:00.000+10:00

Two dear friends and I trundled off on Saturday to listen to His Holiness, the Dalai Lama speak at the Melbourne Convention Centre. It is his last public speaking tour, making the event even more special.
Apart from his message - love, compassion, and truth - his impassioned speech about the importance of teachers and teaching, not just in schools, but in all areas of life, struck a real chord with me.I've spent the last couple of days, between editing, thinking about people who have shared their skill and knowledge with me and taught me so much. School teachers (Mrs Phillips, Miss Woodburn, Mr Samuel) lecturers (Frank Nolan) family (Bruce, Court, Papa, Gran, Annie, Jan) and friends (Doobs, Kath, Kaye, KT, Corinne, Mab, AK, Glenn, Greg) So many generous people who have shared so much with me. So much to be grateful for.

Of walks, edits and the Dalai Lama.....

2011-06-10T11:50:00.000+10:00

Yesterday was a full but rewarding day - an inspiring and productive editorial meeting and lunch with dear friends. If only I could have squeezed in one more coffee...
Today I'm back at the computer, editing. I love editing - this for me, is is where the story blossoms. But before I put red pen to paper, or fingers to keyboard, I like to let the discussions and new ideas 'compost' as KT calls it.
A long walk, even when it's grey and icy, allows the pieces of our meeting to drift around my head and take shape, so that by the time I sit to edit, my brain is buzzing - in a good way. There's nothing like the combination of activity and gorgeous scenery to inspire. And there is always something new to see.
More inspiration tomorrow. I'm very excited to be going to hear the Dalai Lama speak in Melbourne - more travel, but more time with terrific people. I'm one lucky soul.

When the muse strikes...

2011-06-08T09:06:00.001+10:00

Sunday I decided to make yo yo biscuits for my neighbours. Best batter consistency I've made, I swear. These were going to be sensational!

While I was kneading, rolling, and flattening, the muse struck, as it does, and my current work-in-progress called. I slipped the tray into the oven and bolted to the office.
Twenty minutes later, my daughter wandered out of her cave, sniffed, and said, 'What are you cooking?'

On the up side, a friend who has chooks visited Monday.

School Visits...

2011-05-31T17:17:00.000+10:00

The last few days have been hectic, but rewarding with school visits and the Reading Matters conference. To celebrate the fantastic new library at Toorak College, Mt Eliza, I worked with the gorgeous Year 8 girls. We talked about Finding Darcy, which the girls study next term and did writing exercises. What a talented group of writers!
Thank you to the girls and to the wonderful library staff, especially a childhood friend, Sue, who I reconnected with, for your support and for spoiling me.
Today I've been to a much smaller , but just as enjoyable, school - Koroit and District PS where we talked about ideas and how to turn them into stories.
Now I need to finish my last assignment for this semester - more about Reading Matters later.

Autumn and e-books...

2011-05-17T15:09:00.000+10:00

I worked as a teacher yesterday, which I always enjoy. While I was on yard duty, a poppet rushed up to me with an injury - well a scratch, but that's an injury to a Prep. Arms waving in the air, she explained she needed a Bandaid, because she'd... She stopped, arms mid-wave, and gasped. For a second I thought I'd underestimated the scratch, but then her face broke into a massive smile. She sighed and spun around, arms out wide. 'Look at all the colours. The leaves are beautiful!'
She was right, the leaves were the most beautiful colours - rust, magenta, olive, yellow and everything in between.
Bandaid applied, she skipped off to collect leaves to show her teacher after play. I took a little more notice of the leaves.I didn't ever find out what caused the scratch!
This chilly weather is perfect for reading. Finding Darcy, After and Dare You are all available at ebooks.com.

Librarians Rule!

2011-05-15T19:12:00.002+10:00

This week I had a quick visit to Star of the Sea in Gardenvale for the school's Library Week. What a terrific school! Gorgeous, warm, friendly staff and students and such a wonderful library. A huge thank you to Sabina, Julie and the gang in the library who spoilt me rotten - brownies and scones!

At Star of the Sea, I once again saw the importance of school libraries and librarians first hand. I am in awe of the staff's knowledge, dedication and passion to not only books, but to matching the right books with the right readers.

And yet sadly, more and more schools are phasing out librarians and library classes, leaving a room of books lacking the warmth, knowledge and passion needed to encourage students to not only read, but to LOVE reading.

In my youth I marched to Save The Whales, protest about uranium mining and nuclear weapons, stop the Franklin River from being dammed (and damned) and many other causes. Please tell me I don't need to dust off my overalls (it was the 80s), pin on Save School Librarian badges and march again!

As an aside, an unexpected bonus of my visit was renewing contact two old and dear friends, and then this morning an email from another, as a result of Tuesday. All people who are important to me, but I'd lost contact with. So Tuesday, was a busy day, but a ripper!

Visitors...

2011-05-09T11:45:00.000+10:00

Rushed out the door to netball on Saturday morning, bellowing 'Hurry up! We're late.' only to be squawked at, and not by my daughter. I looked up to find these guys hanging over our fence, helping themselves to the neighbour's bounty.
These are just two of the seven cockatoos feasting on the berries.
This morning, on the way out the door, less vocal, but still not sedate, there they were again, totally unfazed by my presence.
Aren't they gorgeous? They're gang gang cockatoos. The males have red heads while the females are all grey, and it would seem more bashful. They stayed on the other side of the bush.

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T19:27:00.000+10:00

Yesterday, the Colac Football Netball Club held a Tickled Pink afternoon tea to celebrate the work the 'ladies' (mums/girlfriends/wives etc) do at the club. The event also raised funds for the Colac Well Women's Clinic.
I was honoured to be guest speaker, especially when I looked around the room at the amazing women present. I'd rather have heard their stories than shared mine, but a guest speaker can hardly interview the audience. The afternoon was terrific (And the football team won a tight match, so everyone was happy!).

Here are the two quotes I mentioned during my speech, quotes which I return to both regularly to keep me on track!
The first is a Chinese proverb -
It's not what life does to you that is important, but what you do with what life does to you.
The second quote I discovered on a postcard in a shop in St Kilda. That postcard lives above my computer, though I don't know the name of the author.

Courage - not the absence of fear or despair, but the strength to conquer them.

Happy Mother's Day.

From the MCG to the Recreation Reserve...

2011-05-02T14:39:00.000+10:00

I couldn't help but smile on Saturday when we drove into the recreation reserve where my daughter was playing and umpiring netball. My daughter plays for a local team, who wear red and black, so again I was watching the Bombers play.
What a contrast.
Last week I was sitting behind the interchange bench at the MCG, one of 90,000 people watching Collingwood do battle with Essendon.
This week, I was at the footy again, only the interchange bench was a tin shed, the crowd was a fraction of the previous week's and instead of physios, fitness staff and endless trainers rushing after the players, parents carried drink bottles onto the oval and stood by the coach with clipboards.
But the passion and love for the game was the same.

Mind you, this week, I paid scant attention to the football, and concentrated on the netball.
This week, the Bombers had a win.

Anzac Day

2011-04-26T10:11:00.001+10:00

It's become a family tradition for us to spend Anzac Day at the MCG with dear friends. As much as I love the game, the most important part of the day for me is the pre-match ceremony. The servicemen and women's lap of honour, the last post and minute's silence are truly moving. There is nothing like a capacity MCG crowd standing in silence, nor the roar that fills the ground after the national anthem.
I'm fortunate to have been to about 20 grand finals, but nothing, not even a Collingwood win (well...) compares to the atmosphere at the G on Anzac Day.
Before the game, as the servicemen and women past our seats, my 20-year-old friend turned to me and said, 'I just can't imagine what they have been through.'
The respect and admiration woven through each word is what Anzac Day is all about.
And a Collingwood win ;)

My Writing Space

2011-04-24T11:26:00.000+10:00

This week I've ventured across to the lovely Gabrielle Wang's website to talk about my writing space.

http://www.gabriellewang.com/archives/how-writers-work-sue-lawson-guest-post/#more-3993

Gut instinct...

2011-04-23T13:51:00.000+10:00

I'm ensconced in my office writing, sunshine pouring through the window. Ideal, right? Not quite. Above me three workman clunk and hammer on the roof rectifying a very, very ordinary job that was done a few years ago.

The original repair guy made me VERY uneasy, but rather than act on my gut instinct, I let it slide.
Why don't we pay more attention to those feelings of unease?
Each hammer and clunk reminds me I need to trust my instincts more.

Anzac Day - a card regarding Finding Darcy...

2011-04-18T13:01:00.003+10:00

Last week a letter, re-addressed by my publishers, Black Dog Books, arrived containing a card from a lady who'd recently read Finding Darcy.
(Finding Darcy is based on a real incident, the sinking of Japanese Prisoner of War ship, the Montevideo Maru . My grandfather, Bill McLennan is listed as one of the 1056 Australians who died. The loss of the Montevideo Maru is Australia's greatest maritime disaster.)
The card, which brought tears to my eyes, started with the line 'Thank you for writing my family story...' and was written by the daughter of another soldier listed as being on the Montevideo Maru. She outlined her family's pain and distress and how her father's death had a continuing profound effect on them, just as it had on my family and so many others.
When I wrote Finding Darcy, I was acutely aware of the need to honour these men and their families, while also recognising the pain and the impact of silence and secrets.
I'm grateful to Helen for taking to the time to write to me, and so humbled as it seems I've been able to tell an important, painful incident in a way that is true to the men and the families. Someone who lived the story like Helen would spot a fake! Like my mum who was three when Bill died, Helen was 4 when her father died. My grandfather Bill and Helen's father were both in C Company. I wonder if they knew each other?

My grandparents and my mother, Trawool Camp. 1941

A favourite...

2011-04-07T10:23:00.000+10:00

A recent visit from my niece and nephew had me rummaging through my 17 year-old's bulging bookshelf for a book to read to them. Wedged between Alison Lester and Mem Fox was The Grumpalump.
The sight of it filled me with memories.
Before my daughter started school, this was her favourite book. She insisted we read and read and re-read it night after night, to the point my husband I could, and probably still can, recite it. Even now we use 'the bear stared' ( a repeated line throughout the story) as part of our family's vocabulary.
So it was like visiting an old friend when I read it to my niece and nephew. I was thrilled to discover I still loved reading it as much as I did all those years ago, and even better, the kids enjoyed it too.

A few days later, I saw a quiz or question, possibly on Facebook - 'What is your favourite book to read aloud?'
For me, it's The Grumpalump, hands down. ...And the gnu flew...
What is your favourite book to read aloud?

Congratulations - better late than never!

2011-04-05T12:22:00.000+10:00

Apparently I missed two huge pieces of news... so prepare for the trumpet blast...

A huge congratulations to fellow Black Dog Book authors Carole Wilkinson and Ananda Braxton-Smith.

Carole's fantastic Sugar Sugar has been listed as a 2011 White Raven and Ananda Braxton-Smith's superb book, Merrow is on the Arealias Awards shortlist.

Way to go Carole, Ananda and Black Dog team.

If you haven't read either book yet...what are you waiting for??

The Butterfly and the Diving Bell.

2011-03-31T14:55:00.001+11:00

Some years ago, I read The Butterfly and the Diving Bell, a book written by Jean-Dominique Bauby, former editor in chief of French Elle, after he suffered a stroke when just 43 years-old. Bauby awoke from a 20 day coma to discover he had 'locked in syndrome' and could only move his left eye. Bauby's dedicated speech therapist devised a way for him to communicate which involved him blinking. Not content with simply being able to communicate with hospital staff and friends, Bauby went on to 'blink' a book.
Yep - he blinked The Butterfly and the Diving Bell.
I was incredibly moved and inspired by Bauby's story, courage, patience and intelligence. It's a remarkable example of human spirit. But it's not only Bauby who inspired me but the staff - the speech therapist, the physio, his assistant. Their dedication and persistence is remarkable and uplifting.
In 2007, the book was made into a film, which I finally watched this week. The film is every bit as moving and inspirational as the book.
Read it. Watch it. Be inspired. It is amazing what humans can achieve.

A trip to the zoo...

2011-03-29T18:17:00.001+11:00

My niece turned three this week, and as instructed, we didn't forget.
To celebrate, we spent the day at the Open Range Zoo, which is always a fabulous experience.
There is nothing like a child's excited face or squeal of joy at seeing a favourite animal. We strolled, marvelled, ate cake and gasped at the lioness snarling and rumbling behind the cyclone fence.

The cheetahs were less active than the lioness, reclining in the shade of a tree. Clearly they aren't always as docile. Front and centre of the display lay the evidence of what happens when rabbit (or perhaps two) stray into the enclosure.

The kids were oblivious.


Debris and a cheetah, just visible by the tree trunk, top left.

The Big Stuff

2011-03-23T09:24:00.000+11:00

Since reading a few years ago, about the benefits of focusing on gratitude, I've been keeping a gratitude diary.
Each night before I go to sleep, I list at least five things that I'm grateful for. Some days the list fills a page, other days reaching five can be a challenge. (You know the days!).
My diary is nothing flash - a spiral bound notebook - and the entries are often scrawled and are always simple.
So today I thought I'd list a few things I'm grateful for, in no particular order...

Calls and messages from friends to say,'Thinking of you!'
Our resident frog's song during the drizzle.
My two year-old niece's comment 'It's my birthday next week. Don't forget!'
My daughter's delightful laugh, nearly always provoked by my husband's sense of humour.
My brother's hilarious Facebook posts.
My nephew's delight at finding green and purple berries on a bush.
Footy starts this week!!
Ideas coming together on the page.
Blue skies (just looked out my window)

For me, a pathological list keeper, a gratitude list helps me focus on the simple stuff - the important things in life. What are you grateful for?

First school visit for the year...

2011-03-16T10:45:00.002+11:00

Yesterday I had my first 'author' visit for 2011. I worked with Year 5 and 6 students at St Aloysius, Redan on ways to make ideas flow and ways to then develop the ideas into stories. One of my favourite things about school visits is watching the students go from fearful and disinterested to buzzing with excitement. That is something special to see.
The students at Redan are a sensational, enthusiastic bunch who came up with such varied and clever ideas.
Can't wait to return in a few weeks
From now on the school bookings come thick and fast and I'm thrilled to have been asked to be part of the Melbourne Writer's Festival.

From Butterflies to Jemima

2011-03-09T13:47:00.000+11:00

My daughter turns 17 today. While icing her birthday cake this morning, I got to thinking about the changes and constants over those fantastic 17 years.

Her love of worms has vanished, completely.

Hi5, Elmo and Barbies have been replaced with Florence and The Machine, Flights of the Concord and Taylor Lautner.

Dale Thomas is still 'the best', I'm still not funny, can't sing or dance and her dad still has the ability to reduce her to a giggling mess with a word.
And the biggest thing that hasn't changed is how much we both love her, more than we ever thought possible.

The other thing I pondered while icing was how I could track her develop via the cakes I've made.
A number one, a caterpillar, a stage complete with ballerinas, Jemima (my personal favourite and triumph!) butterfly, teddy, whale, mermaid, Tweety, ice cream cake (x2) and a run of 'piniata' cakes (they drove me insane!).
So what does a 17 yo request?
A carrot cake.
Yep she's a young lady now.

Definition of old...

2011-03-07T18:26:00.000+11:00

As well as writing, I work as a casual relief teacher. I've spent a couple of days teaching, which is always enlightening.
Today I discovered the definition of old while on yard duty.
I stopped to talk to a prep student sitting on top of the slide. This bright little poppet wanted to know my name.
'Sue,' I replied.
'There was a Sue at my kinder. She helped us.' She looked me up and down. 'She was old too.'
I'm always intrigued to know what kids class as old, so I asked, 'Older than me?'
The little girl nodded earnestly, her sunhat slipping around her head. 'Oh yes. She was very old with curly grey hair. I think...' She scrunched up her face. 'Actually, I don't know how old she was but she was OLD. About 20 or something.'
So there you have it - 20 is very old. I didn't stay to ask how old she thought I was.

New Divas for March!

2011-03-01T11:03:00.002+11:00

How gorgeous are the new Diva covers? Black Dog Books has published the re-issued Girls' Stuff and Girls At Sea this month with bright, shiny new covers. Don't they look great?
You can buy the books, or the whole set, from the Black Dog Books' website.

The Beach

2011-02-28T14:34:00.001+11:00

What a great couple of days! This weekend three dear friends, who are all writers, and I caught up at the beach.
My weekend began with a ferry ride, which I always enjoy, but this one was spectacular - near Sorrento, a large pod of dolphins swam in the vessel's wake, dipping and diving. What a sight!
Next, while the rest of our party were traveling, I set up at a picnic table opposite the beach and wrote - nothing like a change of scenery to spark fresh thoughts.
From there is was two days filled with laughter, friendship and inspiration and of course, work.
My friends are not only gorgeous people, but incredibly generous and talented. Even the most uncreative couldn't help but be inspired just being with them.
How lucky am I?

Change of pace...

2011-02-24T09:25:00.001+11:00

The coverage of the Christchurch earthquake is heart breaking. Perhaps that's why when my daughter showed me this picture I laughed like crazy, because laughing is such a release. Or maybe it's funny because I love Madagascar. Whatever the cause, hope this brightens your day too.

Christchurch

2011-02-23T10:08:00.000+11:00

A few years ago, we drove a camper van around the New Zealand South Island and had the most sensational time. We fell truly, madly, deeply in love with the people and the place. It is truly an exquisite country.
It's hard to reconcile our memories with the images and stories flooding our TV and computer screens at the moment. I can not begin to imagine the terror, grief and shock nor the feelings of helplessness.
My thoughts and prayers are with those affected.

Writing Spaces

2011-02-18T10:35:00.004+11:00

I've been thinking about writing spaces this morning, prompted by two posts by friends. Karen Tayleur wrote about claustrophobia and the need for a view (quoted the brilliant Police, so it's all good) another friend, Michael Gerard Bauer posted a picture of his old writing space. So what makes a great space for me?
I'd so love a Kiki K office, but as hard as I try, my desk always ends up covered in bits and pieces.
Photos, notes, Snoopy, Collingwood stuff, including the last remaining patch from my old duffle coat (Mum burnt it, thanks for asking. I'd rather not discuss it.), CDs, cartoons, notes from my daughter and cards. Yep, it's a mess, but everything on and around it is important.
Every time I finish a project, I clear the decks and redo the noticeboards and desk, but in no time, it's cluttered again. Chaos right? Not at all! I can lay my hand on everything that I need and look out if anyone moves anything or adds to my debris - it's ordered chaos.
As for windows, I have a view onto olive trees, a peppercorn and the rooftop of a national trust building, plus and expanse of sky. If I stand up, it's not so attractive - neighbour's Hills Hoist!
I guess the key to it is to create a space that works for you.

Can you spot the patch from my old duffle coat?

Peter Costello...

2011-02-16T12:59:00.000+11:00

What on earth is Peter Costello on about? It's not the first time I've asked that question, but it's the first time I've asked it related to footy.
I teach as well as write, and I LOVE footy. I've been at schools where AFL footballers have run clinics for primary school kids, and as much as it pains me to say it as the players were from Geelong, the guys have been amazing with the kids - boys and girls.
The players were positive, approachable, inspiring and encouraging, and I've raved to people about their attitude and efforts. They even accepted the kids' attempts at humour (not mine!) in good grace. I can't speak highly enough of the experience for kids and the impact it had on them.
Can I please stop now, as I really can't handle praising Geelong.
My point is, Peter Costello is WRONG. Sure, some AFL players aren't great role models, but there are others who do incredible work.
Harry O'Brien, Nick Maxwell, Daisy Thomas. Yes, they are Collingwood players and I know many other players do great things, I only pay attention to the Pies. Tragic, but there it is!
When run well, footy clinics have a lasting impact on kids and so too does a positive experience with a player.
When I was about 13, I approached my then hero for an autograph after a country practise match. I was polite, though nervous. He'd had an ordinary game and brushed me aside with a wave of his hand. I was devastated. Stan Magro - gotta love Stan - and Renee Kink -Kinky! - came to my rescue and made a fuss of me, signing autographs and chatting. I've never forgotten them for that. As for that hero...let's just say he was demoted from my duffle coat and bedroom wall!
A few years ago, my daughter approached Daisy Thomas at the end of his first season. (Okay, so I approached on her behalf, because she was too scared) Dale was incredible with her - warm, chatty, delightful. I've dined out on that story .
So Mr Costello, sure some AFL players, like the rest of society, stuff up, but many of them do fantastic work, particularly with kids in schools.

They're following me...

2011-02-14T14:45:00.000+11:00

Had a lovely weekend in Melbourne with dear friends. Two days of meetings, parties, book shops, gorgeous food and laughs. What more could I ask for?
However, I suspect the spider take over bid has reached new heights...
At our motel, I stood outside our room and laughed. The irony of this piece of art was not lost on me.
And yes, I'd left my weapons at home.

Endless Battle.

2011-02-09T11:55:00.000+11:00

I'm waging war. My weapons of choice- long handled web brush , gloves and sturdy shoes - for stomping!
Now I'm all for live and let live and I will try to move a huntsman outside rather than squish it, but daddy long legs and their webs drive me nuts.
I blame my mother.
Mum wears glasses and for as long as I can remember, insists she's unable to see the webs trailing from corners. It became my job as a kid to dispatch the webs and spiders. Being the earnest type, I've taken that role with me into adulthood.
So with not one, but two of those web brush thingys (one for outside and the other for inside - I take this very seriously!) I stalk the house and swish, squish and stomp, fortnightly.
HOWEVER at the minute, I'm doing it daily. Excessive? I think not!
The spider population is staging an all out take-over bid. As fast as I knock them down, they're back. And breeding if you don't mind!
My husband dismisses my angst with 'Spray them.'
Fine, except I hate the chemicals in the house.
Anyway stomping and swishing and squishing is much more satisfying, particularly when I'm mulling over a story.
So armed and dangerous, I'm off to do the rounds.

Weapon of choice...

The enemy!

Ooops!

2011-02-07T13:21:00.000+11:00

We have a crazy cavoodle called Milly. She's the cleverest dog we've owned and that includes the dogs we had as kids. Milly is sweet, adores my husband above all others and is prone to fits of neuroses.
My husband has trained Milly well - she fetches, plays dead, walks at your heel, rolls, high fives etc. He also taught her table etiquette - well dog etiquette. Milly must sit, then wait until given the command 'eat' before she can eat. The command is usually issued after the food has been put away.
Simple system. Except...
This morning, I fed Milly. Told her to sit, and took the food back inside. I had a Dory moment and saw a shiny thing and became preoccupied.
When I returned to the kitchen, about half an hour later, and looked out the window, there was Milly, still sitting, staring at her breakfast.
Ooops! I forgot to say eat!
Clever dog, huh? Not so clever owner.
She's been allowed inside while I write today!

Reviews!

2011-02-05T12:56:00.000+11:00

Two new Black Dog Books publications are reviewed in today's Herald Sun and Saturday Age.
The gorgeous Melissa Keil's picture book Rabbit's Year is described at 'sweet' in the Herald Sun. Can't wait to read this one, it sure looks gorgeous.

Violence 101, a young adult novel by Dennis Wright is also reviewed, but in The Age. Sounds like a ripping read and is another one to add to my bedside table asap!

Of frights and laughter.

2011-01-28T11:15:00.000+11:00

This morning, while drying my hair, my hairdryer exploded. There were sparks, smoke and flickering lights. My brain stopped. I dropped the dryer, jumped back, uttered the weirdest word - but I can't remember in what order. Maybe I did all three at once.
The amazing thing is, though my mind when blank, I can remember two things.
1. The look on my face.
I happened to catch my reflection as it happened. Who knew my face could contort in such a way.
2. The word I said.
I invented a new word. Woashck. Actually, now I think about it, maybe it's three words compressed.
Anyway, the moment my brain started to work again, I collapsed into fits of giggles.
Yes I am one of those people who laughs in the face of terror.

Don't trip, fall, scream on a roller coaster, stumble, get a fright, hit your head etc in front of me because I will laugh. I care, truly I do, but I can't help laughing. I promise though that behind the laughter I'm genuinely concerned. I just can't help laughing. However, when it comes to the serious stuff I don't laugh - though I might chuckle afterwards.
Pretty sure it's genetic. My daughter does the same thing.

After the rain...

2011-01-24T15:14:00.001+11:00

The recent summer rains have caused devastation all over the country, but where I live, the impact has been on the frog population.A few nights ago, I went outside to the car to retrieve my handbag, only to find the front of the house covered in dozens of frogs as big as my fingernail. The were on the sliding doors, the bricks, under the door mat. The joint was jumping!Driving home after a night with friends can be tricky, and it has nothing to do with alcohol. Our street was alive with frogs of all sizes. I crawled down the street, going under 5km, and think I avoided squishing any.
At night, the frogs' croaks drown out the crickets. There's nothing like lying in bed, listening to their chorus.
Frogs - they are amazing! The down side is - the snakes that eat them. So far, none of those. Fingers crossed!
I think this little guy on the wall is a Southern Brown Tree Frog.

Sandro Botticelli and other discoveries.

2011-01-21T20:27:00.001+11:00

In November, my family and I holidayed in Europe - Italy, France, Switzerland and England to be exact. As part of our travels we did the whole museum/art gallery thing, part of which was a visit to the Uffizi gallery Florence. Like other visitors before me, I marvelled at the art work, but was struck by one particular artist - Sandro Botticelli . I'd studied Botticelli's The Birth of Venus at school and university, and was familiar with that painting from the countless advertising campaigns it has been used in. I wanted to see Botticelli's work, but wasn't overly fussed, There were other works I was desperate to see, after all, I knew The Birth of Venus, right?
Wrong!
Nothing prepared me for the sheer beauty of the original work. I moved from it to Allegory of Spring, again and again. I'd have stayed longer, but we had to move on.
Now I'm home, I can't help wondering why we let these priceless pieces of work be used for advertising. It seems to me such a demeaning use of such incredible skill.
Just saying!

What the...

2011-01-18T09:56:00.001+11:00

10.30 pm - snuggled under doona, house still, eyelids heavy. Daughter and friend staying over quiet - DVD quiet. All is well.
Deaf-ear piercing scream.
Swearing.
Banging, thumping, thudding.
More screaming.
Roof collapse?
Homicidal, axe wielding maniac at the window?
Riotous laughter.
Huntsman!
'Want me to get it?'
Giggle giggle. Scream.
'I'm right Mum.'
Scream, thud, bump, slam, gasp, swear - repeat for 30 minutes.
Husband, who refused to be stereotypical and rush to the rescue, swears harder and louder, flings back the doona and storms to the room of fear.
House-shaking thud.
Hurrumphs back to bed. 'It's dead now.'
Calm descends once more - punctured by giggles.

Floods!

2011-01-17T10:08:00.000+11:00

How heartbreaking are the images of devastation in newspapers and on TV at the moment. It's impossible not to be moved by the survivors' stories and the tales of loss.
At the same time, the stories of courage, generosity and survival are uplifting.
If you, like so many others, are keen to help financially, here's a new way you might be interested in -Authors for Queensland.
Authors have donated books, artwork, school sessions, manuscript assessments, plus more all of which are being auction with all funds raised going to the Premiers Relief Appeal.
Check out the website and start bidding. There's something for everyone!
http://authorsforqueensland.wordpress.com/

And, while we're on the topic, how amazing is Premier Anna Bligh? Each day, her leadership and compassion shines!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-15T13:15:00.000+11:00

The last few months have been amazing in so many ways.
We headed to Europe, which was incredible! Everywhere we went - Rome, Florence, Milan, Lucerne, Paris and London - were amazing, but if I had to pick a highlight, at gunpoint - Rome! The noise, people, humour, traffic, age, style - WOW! Probably has something to do with my Italian ancestry.
Learnt a few things overseas too!
1. Always cross roads in Romes with locals, or nuns. Nuns = best option.
2. Don't step on the grass at the Vatican.
3. Italians love noise. (That's my excuse for being loud!)
4. Smoking in Europe is very common.

5. Hawkers in Paris are very fast runners when pursued by police on bikes.
6. Escargots make sixteen-year-old dry retch.
7.In conflict between lift and tour guide - lift wins.
8. Motorbike riders in Malaysia are more dangerous than Roman traffic.
9. Haggling is not fun.

Vatican

10. I can't wait to go back!
Now to finish my work in progress!

Not Doing NaNoWriMo Officially But...

2010-11-03T11:35:00.000+11:00

Many of my friends are doing NaNoWriMo. http://www.nanowrimo.org/. Each morning when I check in with Facebook (part of my pre-writing day ritual...along with Spider Solitaire if I have story issues) I'm impressed by my friends' dedication. Status updates are filled with figures - word count aims for the day and totals for the previous day. Go you good things!

So why am I not joining the craze? Well, I kind of am, just not officially as commitments from Nov 20 will slow my writing flow. My project is more a NaNoWriTwoAnAHaWe - National Novel Writing Two And A Half Weeks. Each day, I set a figure, and write like crazy intending to complete my work in progress. So far so good. November has resulted in 5,000 words ! 2500 per day, with time out for a Melbourne Cup Lunch - I'm happy.

So, back to it. No Spider Solitaire today - during my morning walk, a new character formed and has added another level to my work. Gotta love those 'pop-in' characters!Ummm - can I use my blog as part of my word count?

Six Launch

2010-10-28T11:52:00.000+11:00

Karen Tayleur signing Six at Borders, Knox.

Last Friday night, car filled with scrummy food, drinks and important author type (Karen) we sallied forth to Borders at Knox to launch Karen's new book, Six. What a night - lovely spot for a launch, great staff, loads of enthusiastic people AND a chance to catch up with great friends.What's not to love.
If you haven't read Six yet, what are you waiting for?
www.bdb.com.au

Not jinxed!

2010-10-04T16:35:00.004+11:00

Do you know I was worried that my last blog might have jinxed us!

I'm a very happy, crazy Collingwood fan!

Grand Final - again...

2010-10-01T14:18:00.007+10:00

Okay, so it's time to fess up to my major issue - footy, actually, to be specific Collingwood.
My grandfather was a big Collingwood fan and because I thought he was Christmas on a stick, I followed his lead and supported the Maggies.
As a kid, my bedroom was covered in Collingwood posters (and Sherbet posters - incidentally, Daryl Braithwaite barracks for Collingwood - just saying!), I cried in the 70s and early 80s - enough said - rejoiced in 1990 and as for early 2000...
I wore a decorated duffle coat and watching training. I know - tragic.
And here I am, years later, and I still love my footy. I've moved on from Craig Stewart (whose number was on the back of my duffle coat) and Michael Christian to Harry O and Heath Shaw. And thanks to Heath, I realise I am now seriously old. Why was it Heath Shaw that made me realise that? Well, when I was a teenager I had a poster of his father, Ray, on my wall.
On Saturday, this old woman will be cheering like crazy and hoping that the angst will pay off!But no matter what the result, I know my major issue will be as strong as ever.
Go Pies!

2010-09-29T10:16:00.004+10:00

Phew - what a massive couple of months.
Since June, I've
- worked at part time librarian at St Mary's Colac
- visited schools in Ballarat, Werribee, Hamilton, Terang and Drysdale
- judged two short story competitions - one for Ruyton in Kew and the other for the Wimmera Regional Library Corporation. (Winners announced in October)
- been to heart stopping footy finals (! one more to go - Go Pies!)
and
- tried to keep up with my writing.
- read heaps of books.
It's been fantastic, but I'm enjoying the quiet and a chance to write more.
Today I'm working on a YA piece while it rains, shines and rains again.
Starting a new piece always feels strange. The words tend to stutter out, rather than flow. I'm sure it's because the project is new and unfamiliar, compared with the work I've just finished, which was Dare You.
But today I feel like I've reached the stage where the words are flowing and last night solutions to problems popped into my head. Thank goodness for notebooks!
By the way, there's a sensational new book about to hit the stores. Six by Karen Tayleur. Loved, loved, loved it. It's out in October!

Ballarat Writers' Festival and St Ignatius

2010-09-06T10:10:00.002+10:00

To finish off a busy Book Week and Literacy Week, I visited St Ignatius in Drysdale and then presented two sessions at the Ballarat Writers; Festival.
The Year 7 girls at St Ignatius where terrific! Thanks for your questions and enthusiasm.
Thanks also to the organisers of the Ballarat Writers' Festival! Truly a thought provoking and inspiring day. Congrats to everyone involved.
This week is a quiet one - yay!

After Highly Recommended!

2010-08-13T08:46:00.003+10:00

The winners of the 2010 Australian Family Therapists Award for Children's Literature have been announced. (That's the award Allie McGregor's True Colours won three years ago.)

Winner of the older readers' category was I Lost My Mobile At the Mall written by Wendy Harmer. Sally Murphy's Pearl Versus The World won the younger readers' category. Congratulations to Sally and Wendy. I've not read I Lost My Moible yet, but did read and LOVE Pearl. It's a gorgeous book.

One book was highly commended - drum roll...After! Absolutely thrilled with that!

And Dare You is officially 'out there'. Dropped into a bookshop in Geelong to see it front and centre on display! Big like for that one!

2010-07-28T19:32:00.003+10:00

This is the cover of my new book, a young adult novel called Dare You. It hits the shops in August. Dare You is about three friends, Ruby, Khaden and Sas, who's childish games are spiraling out of control.
My copies arrived while I was teaching. Not sure the Year 3/4s knew what to think when I squealed and hugged the books to my chest! Still, they are used to me being over-excited about books. I'm working part time as a school librarian this term, and managed to startle a child with my enthusiasm for Rowan of Rin! He took it to read more because he was petrified that interested!
Watch out for Dare You in all good bookstores soon!
Want to know more - check out www.bdb.com.au

World's worst blogger!

2010-07-16T11:44:00.005+10:00

Okay, so I'm the world's worst blogger, which frankly I find surprising as I love a chat! Somehow, I keep forgetting to post. So, here goes, trying to be a better blogger.

Since my last post, Black Dog Books released my young adult novel, After, and in August will release my brand new y. a. book Dare You. Very exciting stuff.
As well as writing, I've been visiting schools around Victoria, having a ball with amazing students. (Hello Heywood!!)

So here's a picture of After, and stay tuned for the Dare You cover!Dear Families,

Merry Christmas - nearly...

2008-12-17T09:19:00.003+11:00

I've just been Christmas shopping and not surprisingly most of the gifts I've bought are books!
I had intended on giving my daughter the Twilight series for Christmas...but after her amazing school report, we decided to give her the first book early - that was a week ago. She's now read all four books three times and I suspect has started them a fourth . So much for that Christmas gift.
Now I get the 'Team Edward' and 'Team Jacob' thing and when she relinquishes her hold on them, I'm looking forward to reading them, too.
In the 80s (the olden days!!), there was a vampire film called The Lost Boys. I loved it!! Owned the soundtrack, watched the video again and again, and still quote lines from it. Tragic aren't I? Anyway, with the release of Twilight, I decided to watch it again last week. Apart from the seriously scary mullets, it's as good as it was. Sure, cheesy, but terrific fun. My daughter enjoyed it too. Of course, between introducing her to The Lost Boys and The Young Ones, I am in danger of turning her into an 80's tragic.
As for reading, again I've been nostalgic. Years ago I read a Ken Follet book, Pillars of the Earth, which I loved. For my birthday I received the sequeal World Without End and am loving that - the baddies are so bad, the history fascinating and the priory...well that's a whole other story. Worth the read though.
Once I'm finished with that it's Twilight!

November already?

2008-11-18T09:05:00.002+11:00

This year has just flown! I've visited so many schools, met terrific people and had a ball.
A few weeks ago I spent the day in beautiful Balmoral. It was Halloween and the primary kids were dressed up. Now let me tell you, giving an author talk to a room full of ghouls, ghosts, witches, Harry Potters and assorted freaks was, well, a freaky experience.
The secondary guys were dressed normally, thank goodness - enough of the witches and ghouls! - and were a fantastic help with research questions . Thanks to Paul especially and the rest of the crew. I wrote pages of notes after talking to you!
Apart from school visits, I'm working on my next novel, which I'm excited about, and I've been reading heaps.
Have you read Digger J Jones yet? It's fantastic! I laughed out loud and read bits to my husband and daughter. Find it and read it. You'll love it - and it's a fantastic insight into race relations in Australia in the 60s.

Montevideo Maru - Finding Bill!

2008-07-08T12:32:00.002+10:00

In my book, Finding Darcy, Darcy explains to her family that she doesn't care how her great-grandfather died, she cares how he lived.
Darcy's words are my feelings - after years of silence, I feared who my grandfather was had been lost to us. That has changed in the last few weeks.
Last week I did an interview with ABC Local Radio about Finding Darcy. We talked about not only the book, but about the 2/22nd Battalion, the sinking of the Montevideo Maru and my grandfather, Bill McLennan, who died aboard the ship. I mentioned in passing that Bill was from Stanhope, Victoria.
As a result of the interview, I'm now in contact with a man from Stanhope who is compiling information about the Stanhope residents who died during World War II, and so about Bill.
I know now he captained the 1935 Stanhope footy side, where the family farm was and best of all, there are a few old people around who still remember him.
So I guess now, I'm finding Bill!

School Visits

2008-07-04T10:42:00.004+10:00

Last term I visited the Year 3/4 students at PLC. What a warm, enthusiastic and friendly group of girls. I had a fantastic time and must thank their fantastic librarian, Jan Robertson for inviting me and for making my visit so enjoyable.
The Year 3s were reading Tessa as a class novel, so I had to be careful not to give away too much about it.
The Year 4s participated in a workshop with me - what sensational story ideas!
I also visited Penleigh and Essendon Grammar towards the end of term and worked with the Year 10s. Colac is sensational, guys, thanks for asking!! ;)
During term three I'm off to Yarrawonga, Strathfieldsaye, Geelong, Port Fairy, Dennington and Melbourne to visit schools, and am very much looking forward to it.
I also have a September deadline for my next book - it doesn't freak me out if I say it quickly!

Finding Darcy Launch

2008-05-06T10:48:00.015+10:00

Well, Finding Darcy is officially out!

I was so lucky to have two launches. The the amazing Jackie French launched Darcy at the CBC Conference in Melbourne, and the multi-talented Lili Wilkinson did the honours at the Centre For Youth Literature's It's Different for Girls session.

Jackie's speech totally blew me away and for the first time in my life, I found myself speechless. Believe me, that's a rare day!

Huge thanks to Jackie and Lili for their enthusiasm and support.
I'm one very proud cookie!

The It's Different For Girls day was fantastic. It was somewhat overwhelming to be working with JC Burke, Julia Lawrinson and Maureen McCarthy. Not only are they sensational authors, but they are gorgeous people.
Before we spoke, Jenny and her girls from Monash uni performed pieces from our books. They did a fantastic job. We were thrilled to see our work dramatised.

Must say hi to Jenny and the crew, plus a big hi to the girls from Waverly and Drouin, particularly!

Montevideo Maru

2008-04-27T13:07:00.002+10:00

I'm very excited to hear that Channel Nine has raised awareness of the sinking of the Japanese vessel, the Montevideo Maru.
My grandfather was one of the 1056 Prisoners of War who died when the ship was sunk off the coast of the Philippines in 1942. The men were captured when the Japanese Imperial Army invaded Rabaul in January, 1942.
Even though this event is Australia's biggest maritime disaster, with more Australians dying than did during the Vietnam war, it remains shrouded in mystery and controversy.
Want to know more about this little known incident and its far reaching effects?
Read my new book, Finding Darcy, which is coming out this week.
I'm hoping it will also help to raise awareness of this important World War II incident.

Short

2008-04-14T14:56:00.002+10:00

Short - an anthology published by black dog books, with Royalties being donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters

I'm very excited. My advance copies of the black dog books anthology, Short, edited by the fantastic Lili Wilkinson, arrived today.

The book not only looks great, but is a sensational read, filled with stories, cartoons and poems from your favourite authors, like Michael Gerard Bauer, Jeni Mawter, Karen Tayleur, Carole Wilkinson, Andy Griffiths and me. And there's one other author I really wanted to tell you about - Esther Crowley. Esther is just 12 years old and is an amazing talent. We write together every Tuesday afternoon, and she constantly blows me away with her skill. She's from a very talented (and simply fantastic) family - her mum and dad are gifted musicians and her aunt, Cath Crowley has written sensational books like Chasing Charlie Duskin and the Gracie Faltrain series. Grab a copy of Short and read Esther's story. It won't be the last story of Esther's you'll read, that's for sure.

Need another reason to buy it? Royalties go to the Big Brother, Big Sister charity. You can find out more about Short at http://www.bdb.com.au/ and about Big Brother Big Sister at http://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.au/

Enjoy Short!

Countdown to Finding Darcy

2008-04-07T12:59:00.003+10:00

I am so excited. My copies of Finding Darcy arrived on Friday. I'm blown away by how fantastic they look and can't wait to see them on the bookshelves in May. The crew at Black Dog Book are seriously talented people and just fantastic to work with.
Finding Darcy has been a labour of love as Darcy's great-grand father's experiences are based on what happened to my grandfather. I'm very proud of the book and hope it helps to highlight what happened to the men of the 2/22nd Battalion during WWII.
Finding Darcy hits the bookshops in May, so keep an eye out for it. I know you'll love it.

Somerset Literature Festival

2008-04-05T17:47:00.007+11:00

This is the gorgeous Meredith Costain, Jeni Mawter and Jacqueline Harvey, waiting at the Raddison Resort for the bus to the festival.

This year, I was lucky enough to be invited to attend the Somerset Celebration of Literature Festival in Queensland.
What a completely fantastic experience. The school, organisers and the students that attended were terrific. I ran three sessions, one each day, and participated in the student dinner, which was a hoot! Ten students and I had to come up with a short presentation on the topic - Family Matters. After much laughter and chocolate cake, we came up with a short play based on a family trip. My group were sensational!
If you haven't heard of The Somerset Celebration of Literature Festival, you can check out more information at http://www.somerset.qld.edu.au/cofl/
Queensland is one lucky state having this festival and Voices On The Coast. I often wonder why no Victorian school has tried to run a similar festival.

Narre Warren

2008-01-21T16:45:00.000+11:00

On Friday I was lucky enough to meet children from at the Narre Warren library at Fountain Gate (yes, the shopping centre loved by Kath and Kim!).
The library was packed! Thank you to everyone who came and congratulations to those 1,000 kids who participated in the Summer Reading program.
Those kids read 9,000 books. How cool is that??

I've had a break over the summer, which has been sensational. Now I'm fired-up and ready for 2008.
On my to do list is the final edit of Finding Darcy, to be released in May, and I workshops and talks around Victoria and Queensland. Yay!

What a term!

2007-10-30T13:20:00.000+11:00

Phew, that was a busy term...but I had a ball!
Thank you to all the sensational schools I have visited. I've learnt so much and had such a terrific time. It's great to hear from some of the students I met too, so thank you for your emails.
I'm busy editing my next book at the minute. I love the editing process - this is where your story really comes together. Now I just need to decide on a title...I'm nearly there. This book should be out in May...stay tuned!
I'm also starting to receive bookings for 2008 which is very exciting. Let me, black dog books (http://www.bdb.com.au/) or Sue at Nexus Arts know if you'd like to have me visit your school.
Better get back to the editing!

Term Three Bookings

2007-07-25T10:36:00.000+10:00

During Term Three, I'm travelling around Victoria, running workshops.
I'll be at:
Maryborough Education Centre - July 24 & 24, August 6, 7, 8, 29, 30 &31 September 12 & 13
Halls Gap – Bright Futures Camp - August 15 16 & 17 (am)
Stawell – Teacher PD - August 17 (2pm)
Book Week
Elwood Primary School - August 20
Lauriston Girls School (jnr) - August 21
Colac Primary School - August 23
Colac High School - August 24 & 27
Mornington Literature Festival - September 1
Kilvington Grammar Primary - September 4
Great Western Primary School - September 11
On line literature festival - September 17
Ballarat Writer’s Group workshop - September 23
If you'd like to know more, check my website for contact details and follow the links to the workshop page.
www.suelawson.com.au

Allie's Award!

2007-07-20T10:02:00.001+10:00

Sensational news this week.
Allie McGregor's True Colours has won the Australian Family Therapists' Children's Literature Award for older readers.
I'm absolutely thrilled and very proud.
Allie wouldn't be the book it is without the support and encouragement of Black Dog Books and my family and friends. Thanks guys!
It's very exciting stuff!
I'll be celebrating when we launch the new Diva books on Sunday.

Holiday Action

2007-07-18T17:14:00.000+10:00

Hope you enjoyed your school holidays. Mine were very busy - part work, part play.
During the first week, I made the trip to Warrnambool for Fun4Kids. I had a ball meeting new people and catching up with those I've met before. Hi Liam!
Last week I did a book signing at Angus & Robertson at Westfield Bay City Plaza in Geelong. John, Terri and the crew made me very welcome. Thanks to everyone who came to say hi.
I also managed to make it to two Collingwood matches...I'm starting to think I'm a jinx though! We lost both, but the games were fantastic and the Pies are looking good. As much as I hate to admit it, Geelong are a fantastic team.
This Sunday, July 22nd, Hawking Books in Birregurra is holding a launch for the latest Diva books - Extreme Girls and Drama Queen. Come along if you can. I'll be signing books and reading too.
I'd love to see you at Hawking Books, Main Street Birregurra from 11am.
During this term I'm visiting heaps of schools. I'll list where I'm off to in my next post.
I love the school visits!
Hope you are all keeping warm!

New Divas

2007-05-16T11:16:00.000+10:00

How cool are these? These are the next two books in the Diva series - Diva -Drama Queen and Diva - Extreme Girls. Don't they look fantastic?

Keep an eye out for these in your bookshop from July.

I've just come back from a week in Noosa, and am now back at work, answering emails and chasing up bits and pieces. Once that's done it's back to writing and to editing my current work. All very exciting and heaps of fun.

Best of all, Collingwood beat Carlton on the weekend. It doesn't get much better than that! :)

Diva Launch

2007-04-26T12:56:00.000+10:00

We launched Girls Stuff and Girls At Sea at Hawking Books in Birregurra on Saturday. What a fantastic day! There were sensational cup cakes, pink drink, balloons and bubbles. And lots of smiling faces.
Jill and Graeme from Hawking Books sure know how to put on a show.
Thanks so much to everyone who came and especially to Jill and Graeme for all their hard work.
I've just finished editing Girls Go Extreme and am about to start editing Drama Queen, the next two books in the series. These two come out in July. The covers are fantastic! Will post them soon. And will let you know when the launch is. I'd love to see you!

Chasing Boys and Divas go OS

2007-03-26T16:54:00.000+10:00

My friend, Karen Tayleur has a new young adult book, Chasing Boys coming out in May. I've read the chapter extracts and have to say I can't wait to keep reading.
You can check out the chapter extracts from Chasing Boys at www.bdb.com.au.

My other huge news, which Karen gave me today, is that the first books in The Diva series are being published in America. Very exciting news!

Premier's Reading Challenge

2007-02-16T14:00:00.000+11:00

The Victorian Premier's Reading Challenge has been launched for 2007 and I'm very excited, not only because the challenge is a fantastic way to encourage students to read, but because my books The Diva Series, Allie McGregor's True Colours, My Gran's Different, Tessa, Ferret Boy and Jamie's Star all made the list.
If you haven't been part of the Reading Challenge before and want to know more about it, you can check out the website - http://www.education.vic.gov.au/prc/
The program is to encourage students from Prep to Year 9 to read more.
Other states also have Premier's Reading Challenge, so check out their list and start reading. You'll find fantastic books and a few of mine too.

More Divas...

2007-02-04T17:40:00.001+11:00

Big news! black dog books will publish four more books in the Diva series, with the first two books, Girls' Stuff and Girls At Sea being released in April. And am I excited! Writing these books has been heaps of fun, so I was thrilled when I was asked to write more. I love Mickey and Skye and even have soft spot for Coco - or Mini-Freak.
All four books are now with Karen my editor, so the editing process is about to begin.
I love this stage as the books become stronger each time we work on them.
I can also tell you the titles of books 7 & 8 in the series, which come out in July - Drama Queen and Girls Go Extreme.

Hello!

2007-01-31T15:04:00.000+11:00

Hi and welcome to my blog.

I'm a children's author and have started this blog as a way of keeping you up to date with my new books and where I'm running workshops.
You can check out my website at http://www.suelawson.com.au
While you're at it, have a look at my publisher's website too!
www.bdb.com.au
Look forward to hearing from you!