Looking For Inspiration.

I haven’t been writing lately. As a person who loves being an author, writing for children, that statement is hard to admit.

I was at a neighbour’s place the other evening and she asked me what was I working on? She was rather surprised when I said nothing. I don’t know whether it’s a matter of simple procrastination, letting the imposter syndrome rear its ugly head or letting life get in the way, but I am struggling to find the motivation to find time to write. I am constantly congratulating author friends on their new contracts or new releases and find myself wishing I had something to share, but to no avail, I still can’t put words on paper. I know I should be writing every day, even just a few words, but those words seem to be eluding me at present.

Procrastination and lack of inspiration is real.

It’s not like I haven’t been doing anything, I have spent a lot of time marketing the books I have written and making teaching resources for those books. I still have more of those I want to do. It’s hard to get the balance between marketing and writing right. Here again is the link to the resource catalogue I am in with a number of other authors in case you missed it last month. Books for Teachers Catalogue

I have also spent time reworking a picture book. I am sure this story has the potential to be really worthwhile and valuable in many classrooms across Australia and overseas, but the more I try to fix the issues in it, the more of a mess I seem to be making of it. Do I give up on it, or should I persevere? I love the concept, but am struggling to find the best way to get my idea across. I’ve tried rhyme and prose but I’m still not happy with it. I even left it alone for several months hoping that when I came back to it, I would see the problem and be able to fix it. I’m not one to give up. Hopefully one day this story will be complete and fit for publication.

Since wrapping up the Adamson Adventures I seem to be having trouble settling on the next idea. I have a few things rattling around in my head but I can’t decide which way to go. Do I try something completely different and write a series of short chapter books for ages 6 -9? Or do I stick to what I feel I am best at and write another middle grade adventure series?

I’ve had plenty of inspiration in all my travels in the last twelve months, but now I am finding it difficult to find the inspiration to settle on just one idea. Should I play around with a couple of things and see which one feels right? Or do I make a choice and be more determined to work on just that one?

I have an idea about a mystery series set in a little coastal beach town, perhaps with a hint of magic in the form of a fairy, (or not). Then there’s a reluctant witch who becomes a magic investigator on the hunt of goblins and dragons probably set in the UK. Which of these would you like to read or do you think kids would prefer to read? At the moment I have been leaning towards my mystery set in a little fictional town called Wombat Hollow. The fact that it’s Australian seems to be appealing to me more, but as I write this, I am now rethinking my witches goblins and dragons. See what I mean, way too much procrastination and not enough direction. Maybe writing this blog post will give me the kick up the pants I need.

Canva AI generated image of Wombat Hollow.

Canva AI generated image of a dragon, a witch and goblins.

How do you find your inspiration to write? Any hints would be greatly appreciated at this stage.

Five Reasons Authors Do School Visits.

We’re almost at the end of the first term of school for 2025, incredible, I know, this year is accelerating way too fast! Before we know it, Book Week will be upon us in term 3 once again. Schools are already thinking about which authors they would like to invite to join in the bookish celebrations.

Naturally, I too, have been thinking about author school visits and why we do them. The other day I made a poster to start sending to a few teachers I know and schools within my region in the hope that I can encourage them to consider an author visit this year. I listed on it several reasons that I believe are important to why we as authors enjoy doing school visits. Below are those reasons in a little more depth.

Author School Visits by Sandra Bennett

Here are the main five reasons that authors do school visits that I can think of. If you can suggest any others, then please add them in the comments below. I would love to know your thoughts.

1. Connection - this is the obvious one that come to mind first. As a children’s author we love to connect with our readers and the best way to do that is with a school visit. It’s an opportunity for us to engage with our audience. Discover what works and what doesn’t work and learn more about their likes, interests and curiosities.

2. Improve Literacy - I know this has always been one of my major goals and I’m sure the same can be said about many authors. A paramount reason for writing for children is to help improve literacy through a love of our stories. When we are invited into a school for a visit, we are not only showcasing our books but our love of reading. What better way to be a role-model for reading than to see an author who is enthusiastic about books and reading. It really does encourage reading for pleasure in the children you engage with.

3. Inspire Reluctant Readers - Let’s admit it, not all kids love to read, especially when there are so many other distractions in the world these days. When an author visits a school and talks about their reasons and inspiration for writing with loads of enthusiasm and fills kids minds with lots of interesting facts and information, it’s amazing the effect it can have. I have visited many schools where I have been given feedback that ‘little Johnny was so engaged. I can’t believe he asked questions, he’s never done that before,’ or ‘wow, you had everyone involved, even little Jenny who usually never listens.’ The stories can go on about reluctant readers who never pick up a book but after being introduced to the visiting authors stories, they are now reading. This is always music to my ears.

4. Encouragement and Enthusiasm - There is always one or two children in the crowd who want to become writers, or reluctant writers who believe they can’t do it. When an author comes to school, they talk about their journey into writing and publishing so that the students can see that this is possible no matter what their capabilities are. Encouraging kids to write by giving them the tools to begin provides a sense of ownership and belief in themselves.

5. Introduce a World of Imagination - Books can be learning tools, springboards for research and facilitating growth, knowledge and understanding, but they are so much more. Within stories, whether picture books or chapter books there is the development of curiosity, creativity and imagination. They immerse children into creative new worlds of experiences that invite the reader to think critically and be inventive.

6. Bonus - Author School Visits are Fun for Everyone.

Connecting with students during an author visits at Telopea Park School

Inspiring imagination by reading from Fossil Frenzy, the Adamson Adventures 3 during an author school visit.

I also want to tell you about a great new project that I have been involved with in recent months. A bunch of 37 amazingly talented independent authors, including myself have come together to offer something that we believe is not only unique, but is of a huge benefit to teachers, librarians, parents and home-schoolers. We offer an all-in-one package of children’s books with time-saving awesome resources that align with the Australian curriculum. it’s called the Books For Teachers Catalogue and you will find so many quality books and their related resources. If you are Australian (my apologies to my overseas readers) this is a valuable resource I encourage you to please consider perusing. It has truly been a joy collaborating with other authors who also love helping bring learning to life.

To access the Books for Teachers Catalogue, simply click on the free link here or download the QR code to your phone.

Front cover of the Books for Teachers Catalogue.

Books for Teachers Catalogue - a few samples of the books that can be found inside the pages.

QR code for the Books for Teachers Catalogue

A look inside the Books for Teachers Catalogue with my page on Tracks in the Mist, the Adamson Adventures 4.

Let's Celebrate the Love of Reading.

Can you believe it’s February already! The month where people take a moment to share their love.

So let’s celebrate our love of books.

Yesterday, 5th February, was World Read Aloud Day a time to celebrate sharing that joy of reading with others. Whether it’s in a classroom environment with the kids sitting quietly on the floor engrossed in the story the teacher is reading aloud, or whether it’s at home with a child snuggled in your lap on a comfy lounge or cosy bed, reading aloud to someone is a wonderful, joyous experience. There are so many reasons why reading aloud is worth celebrating, and I’m sure you know them all by now, but here are just a few as a reminder.

These are just a few reasons why reading aloud is so important.

Did you also know that this month is the 15th anniversary of Read Aloud Day. Now that’s a birthday worth celebrating.

Happy Birthday World Read Aloud Day.

I have some rather fond memories of reading aloud with kids when I was teaching. Some of my favourite times of the day were watching the expressions on their faces as I read a story that would fill them with wonder and laughter. Reading aloud to my own children and grandchildren over the years has created fabulous memories too. Who do you like to read aloud with?

While February 14th is known as Valentines Day to most people, it also happens to be known as Library Lovers Day by the reading and writing community. It’s a day to celebrate all the wonderful things that happen in our schools and public libraries. It’s another way to celebrate a love of reading and the important key role that libraries hold in making books available to everyone. It’s a chance to thank your local librarian for all the help they provide in encouraging a love of literacy, a passion for books, the ability to learn and explore new worlds and the essential role they play in education of children and adults.

There are lots of activities you can do to help celebrate. Listed here are just a few.

1. Make a bookmark

2. Write a book review

3. Set a reading challenge. How many books can you read during the month of February?

4. List all the reasons why you love visiting the library, perhaps add all your ideas in an image, eg, inside a heart or book shape.

5. Learn about the Dewey Decimal system

6. Recommend a favourite book to a friend. Give your reasons why you think this book is great to read.

7. Write an acrostic poem about reading

8. Make a card to thank your librarian for all the help they give you.

9. Write and illustrate your own picture book

10. Write a letter to an author and thank them for writing a book you loved.

In my November blog post I asked for some help in finally starting my newsletter. You can read it Here. Thank you so much for all your advice and suggestions. At the end of January, I managed to send out my first newsletter.

My new newsletter is here.

In keeping with the theme of loving books, my newsletter will be filled each month with ideas for helping raise awesome readers with tips and tricks for both parents and teachers. In case you missed it, in my first tip I talked about the importance of being a role-model for your child. If you want them to read, you need to be seen reading too. A great trick I recommended was a challenge jar, full of lots of ideas to entice your young readers to pick up a book.

Also included is a book review, a fun fact based on one of my own books and a fun classroom activity also based on one of my books. This may vary in the upcoming months, and if you have any further suggestions I would be pleased to read to them.

If you aren’t on my email list and are interested in joining the conversation each month, you can sign-up at the bottom of any page on my website, including this one. Just look for the Raising Awesome Readers subscribe button.

What would you like to see in my newsletter?

Have you read any great books lately?

Who do you love reading aloud with and why?

What makes your library worth celebrating?

I would love to hear from, you, thanks for reading and please leave a comment below.

Looking Back on the Happiest days of 2024

Happy New Year Everyone! I hope it has started off on a good foot for you all.

Each year, my friends and I consider a few questions as we reminisce about the year that has just ended and ponder the possibilities of the year that has just begun. If you are interested, stick around after you read my post this month to see the link to my other friends as they share their thoughts on 2024 as well.

This year, to be a little different, I decided to focus on just the one question.

Describe the happiest days of 2024? What can you do to have more days like that in 2025?

To say I had many happy days last year is almost an understatement. It was a year of so many delightful events, experiences, adventures and so much more. I am grateful for every moment. It started and ended with two beautiful weddings. The first was a magnificent weekend away in the Southern Highlands of NSW where we were invited to share the celebration of dear family friends and their son who has grown-up with our sons. The second was the gorgeous fairy-tale wedding of one of our nephews at a castle-like venue in the heart of Sydney. Two weddings so completely different, yet both very special moments in time that we were extremely happy to share.

A fairy-tale wedding in Sydney for our nephew.

A beautiful country wedding in the Southern Highlands for a family friend.

Next was the publication of not one but two books in 2024. Dragons Drumming was a passion project that started from the spark of an idea after a thunderstorm several years ago. It slowly progressed and developed into an absolutely beautiful picture book. The second was the long-awaited final book in the Adamson Adventure series. Tracks in the Mist was another story I was keen to see in my hands and made me so happy and proud to reveal to my eagerly waiting and very patient readers. One of the most exciting moments that occurred due to this book were the radio interviews I was asked to do for ABC radio here in Canberra and then another one for ABC radio Tasmania. To hear a radio interviewer speak of your book with so much excitement after reading it filled my heart with pure joy. I was extremely grateful for the opportunity. I wish I could re-share the interviews here with you, but sadly I didn’t record either of them, not knowing that they would be removed from the website after a few weeks.

A fun day in the sun launching Dragons Drumming at our local independent book shop The Book Cow.

I was interviewed in=person at ABC Radio Canberra.

Then hubby and I had our eight weeks long deserved overseas holiday to the UK and some parts of Europe. Ever since my Parkinson’s diagnosis I had been in training for long walks in the Lakes District of England, planning to conquer National Trust walks with ease. We took our hiking poles, and yes, I was extremely happy to have achieved exactly what I set out to do. Of course, there were many happy days in those eight weeks, in fact most days I woke with a huge smile on my face and went to bed content and fulfilled. The Cotswolds were a dream come true. As was seeing Beatrix Potter’s Hilltop, and William Wordsworth’s home in the Lakes District. I ticked another famous author moment off my bucket list in Edinburgh, when we found the Elephant House Cafe where JK Rowling penned Harry Potter. It was such an incredible moment to sit at the same desk where she wrote, and write a note to her myself. I wonder if she ever actually reads any of the messages?

We carried our hiking poles all over the UK and Europe, but I only needed to use them one day on the hills in the Lakes District. I am so glad I had them, this walk was steep, slippery and rocky, but worth every step.

The original Elephant House Cafe in Edinburgh had closed due to smoke damage from a fire in the building next door, but I was very pleased to find it had been relocated.

Ever since my childhood spending New Years Day night watching the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo I have always had a longing to go to Edinburgh. Was it a coincidence I married a Scotsman or was it fate? We first visited Scotland in 1996, then returned in 2010, but it wasn’t until this trip that we had the time to spend so many days walking and exploring the beautiful city of Edinburgh. The architecture and history held me in awe as each day we happily strolled the Royal Mile and beyond. One day we reached 25,000 steps wandering around the city. It’s amazing how far you can walk when you are engrossed in your surroundings.

We strolled the Royal Mile and surrounds from sunrise to well after sunset.

Ancient history and archaeology are both another fascination I have had since my high school years. Add standing stones since reading Cross-Stitch (Outlander) many years ago when it was first released, and I had to make my way to the far north of Scotland and the Orkney Islands. The weather was windy, drizzly and quite chilly, but nothing could dampen my enthusiasm for walking around the Ring of Brodgar, touching the Standing Stones of Stenness or exploring the ancient site of Skara Brae. Historic Village. We also did day trips to Hadrian’s Wall and the nearby Roman remains at Vindolanda. This archaeological site was discovered in the early 1970’s and is said to have may years ahead before they have uncovered everything. Alnwick Castle where parts of Harry Potter were filmed was another day trip that was a pinch me moment.

The Standing Stones of Stenness were the third set I visited this trip. Each time a touched the stones, but sadly I didn’t travel back in time.

The wind and rain lashed fiercely sideways as the bitter cold seeped through my clothes but undeterred I still walked around the ancient site of Skara Brae.

The ancient Roman archaeological site at Vindolanda near Hadrian’s Wall, will take years to fully excavate, yet the museum already has a massive collection of artefacts.

Reaching Denmark and meeting up with our nephew and his partner in their home in Aarhus was incredible, and having the opportunity to have them show us around Copenhagen was absolutely wonderful. We shared many moments laughing as we were guided around the city able to view it from the perspective of a local. Zurich and Lucerne were an unexpected beautiful surprise. We hadn’t planned those days at all, but sometimes the unexpected can be the most delightful as you discover places you have never imagined visiting. Finding the cable-car that took us to the Chateau at the top of Lucerne was spectacular. The view was stunning, the chateau and lunch were magnificent and the walk through the pine forest back down to the city was enchanting.

Copenhagen shone in glorious colour as we wondered along the canal.

Hotel Gutsch is a beautiful white chateau that sits above the hills of Lucerne.

There is still so much that made me happy about that holiday, I could go on for ages. Suffice to say, Venice could never disappoint, and finding ourselves on a Norwegian cruise through the fjords was unbelievable. The day the ship cruised through the fjord early in the morning towards the tiny village of Olden, was the absolute highlight. The views from the top of the mountain were breathtaking and walking through the thick snow that sunk half-way up my shins while fighting a strong bitter wind to reach an igloo was unforgettable,

Words cannot express the magnificence of Olden nestled at the end of a long fjord. We would never see anything like this in Australia. The heights of the mountains shooting up from sea-level were astounding.

I can’t forget our week in and around London while staying with hubby’s cousin and his family. Their hospitality was second-to-none as each day we laughed well into the evening. They helped us explore Blenheim Palace, (family home of Winston Churchill) Cliveden House, Runnymede, Windsor, (the site where the Magna Carta was signed), Windsor Castle, Oxford, the quaint little village of Cookham and a stroll along the part of the Thames where they live. Most days we still made it home to spend time with their gorgeous grandkids after school. Family time is always special, it made us extremely happy to feel so welcomed and at home by family on the other side of the world.

On our return home to Australia, there were still many more days that I embraced with complete happiness. But the cherry on top of the cake was our trip to Tasmania in search of seeing the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis). Not only did we see it once in Tassie, but we had what could be a once in a life time experience where we watched the heavenly astronomical display from our own back deck at home. Words cannot describe how I felt being able to see this with the naked eye.

Experiencing an aurora from the east coast of Tasmania, was truly incredible as we watched naked eye beams shoot towards the heavens.

Witnessing an aurora from home was unbelievable. Notice however that the colours are not as spectacular as we are further north and can only see the highest beams.

How can I continue to have more days like this in 2025?

Well, I certainly don’t plan another massive trip like 2024, but I will be content with my memories, reliving them as I slowly work through all the photos to make beautiful coffee table photo album books. I have already completed the first book of the Cotswolds and Lakes District, but I think it will take all year to complete the rest.

In the meantime, we have our 4th grandchild due to be born any day now and I look forward to spending a couple of weeks in Perth once he/she is born. When my son’s first child was born in 2020, it was the middle of Covid and the state of WA was in lockdown, which meant he was six months old before I was allowed to fly to Perth to see him. This time around will be so different, I want to be there for my son, my daughter-in-law, my grandson and their new precious baby.

Later in the year the family will come together again for the happy celebration of another nephew’s wedding. In between all of this, I hope to continue to write, maybe finish a picture book I started last year and begin a new adventure series. For you to stay up to date on all my news, I will finally embark on a monthly newsletter that is coming very soon. If you haven’t signed-up already, please consider doing so, I promise I won’t invade your inbox too often, but I do hope to bring you lots of worthwhile information on helping raise awesome readers while providing teaching resources, book reviews and more.

If you made it this far, thank you for staying with me and reading, I know it was a bit of a long one. If you would like to read more, here are the links to my friends posts regarding their thoughts on 2024.

Julie Gorges The New Year: A Time for Reflection and Hope.

Books by Rose What is the Most Courageous Thing You Did in 2024?

What about you? What made you happy in 2024? What do you plan to do in 2025 to continue making those moments of joy? Please let me know in the comments below.

Reasons to Gift Books at Christmas

Summer has arrived with a vengeance here. It has been a bit hotter for late November - early December than usual. With the heat comes the promise that Christmas is near. Time to hang the ornaments, send Christmas cards, (if you still do that sort of thing) and buy the presents for friends and family.

That got me to thinking. What makes a great gift for young readers and adults alike? Books of course!

Let’s explore a few of the amazing benefits of gifting and reading books.

Improves your memory and focus.

One of the biggest issues we face today with kids and adults alike is the ability to focus on a task for longer periods of time. Reading requires the brain to actively engage with the story, helping us to comprehend and process the information within the text. A truly engaging story will keep us concentrating longer and train the brain to focus. The more we read, the more our brain learns to track the characters, settings, and problems in the storyline as we collect information, and remember facts and details. As the brain learns to concentrate we are subsequently not as easily distracted by the business of all the shiny new electronic devices, TV, and video games, thus also helping kids to concentrate better in class.

Reading from birth is one of the most important gifts you can give a chid.

Enhances your imagination.

Often when reading a book, there are no pictures, especially as children become stronger independent readers. As we read, we imagine the story in our mind. Each reader will bring images or interpretations to a story and ‘see’ in their mind the scenes differently. The more we read, especially things that are familiar to our everyday life, the more we can begin to understand and learn other things that expand our knowledge base. As we become more familiar with words described in stories, the greater and more in-depth images we can develop in our minds. Developing our imagination increases creativity and a willingness to explore and experiment and thus leads to innovation.

Increases your vocabulary.

Research has proven time and again that the more you read, the more words you will learn and understand. The more often you see a word on the written page, or hear a word when being read to, the more it becomes stored in your memory and comprehension to eventually become a part of your everyday vocabulary.

Reading everyday increases vocabulary exponentially.

Give your child a head start in life by reading everyday.

Expand your knowledge.

From birth we begin with concept books, learning about our immediate world around us. We then move on to picture books where our knowledge of the world and environment reaches further afield. Once we become independent readers, we increase our knowledge and understanding through fiction, science, science-fiction, non-fiction, history, geography and so much more. Learning to read is the basic stepping stone to expanding our knowledge and learning anything and everything we want to understand. It is the essential element to becoming and achieving whatever we want in our life. Books open us up to so many opportunities and possibilities.

One of my favourite Dr Seuss quotes.

Deepens Empathy.

Reading fiction, becoming familiar with likeable characters, events, situations and problems, helps us to develop empathy as we experience through the story a different perspective. As we become more involved in a story, we also become invested in the outcome as we progress through a rollercoaster of emotions and begin to sympathise with the characters. Our emotional intelligence, understanding and perspectives increases our interpersonal skills for everyday life. Deepening our empathy skills improves our quality of relationships, our own emotional well-being and builds a better connected society by relating to others and thus developing an understanding and willingness to help others.

These are just 5 reasons why you should gift books at Christmas, birthdays or all throughout the year. The gift of reading books is also the gift of knowledge, learning, understanding imagination and empathy.

Here’s a list of 10 amazing benefits of reading.

Can you think of any more?

This Christmas I urge you to give the gift if reading to someone you love.

I’ll leave you here with a little video clip I made of my completed set of Adamson Adventures suitable for your young reader ages 7 -12 years. All books are available here from my website.

Let's Talk Newsletters

Some years ago, I can’t even remember exactly when, I started the process of planning to write a monthly newsletter. I even had a few people sign up. Over the years that number of sign-ups has slowly grown. Out of the blue, I will receive a notification that I have another one. But have I actually written one single newsletter and sent it out? No, nothing, nada, not one.

Person trying to come up with an idea or two. I think I need your help.

Should I be writing a monthly newsletter? All the experts in marketing tell me I should. They say if I want to increase my readership and expand my brand, I should be giving my tribe of followers something worthwhile to keep them interested and engaged. Then when I release a new book, they will be more likely to feel confident in purchasing it as they will have confidence in me and what I have to say.

I know all this. I also know I should be giving away a freebie to encourage people to join up. It’s not as if I am new to the concept. After all, it is marketing 101. So why don’t I bite the bullet and just do it?

I read lots of other authors newsletters. I study what they include. The trouble is, I want to write something different. Something that you can look forward to when you find it in your email box. Something that you will find interesting, worthwhile, valuable and want to open and read.

A monthly newsletter coming directing to your inbox. Would you open it?

That’s why I don’t want to do what everyone else does. Most writers write about this writing life. Events they have been to, books they have read. Helpful writing tips and even ways to get published. These are all wonderful, but I can’t help but ask the question, is this going to engage my target audience?

Who is my target audience? While I really appreciate the generosity of fellow authors who follow me and buy my books, let’s admit it, they do help spread the word when they write great reviews, they are not my target audience. Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and teachers are my true target audience. These are the people who decide what books to buy for their children. So the question is, what do they want to read and learn from me?

Together I hope we can come up with a few ideas.

Should I be writing a monthly book review?

Share a reading tip or two?

Suggest a helpful reading activity or strategy?

A motivational reading quote?

Should I add sneak peaks from inside my published books or snippets from my works in progress?

Would it be a good idea to include a teaching resource for one of my books?

As someone who buys children’s books for kids or yourself, what would you look for or want to read in a monthly newsletter from me?

Please let me know in the comments below. I need and value your help. Together we just might see a newsletter finally coming your way soon.

I met an Icon of Australian Picture Books.

I met Mem Fox!

Such an incredible icon of children’s picture books, Mem Fox, and little ol’ me.

Mem Fox has been writing picture books for forty years. Several generations have now grown up delighting in the joys of her books, especially Possum Magic and Where is the Green Sheep? among so many others. Imagine my delight to be able to meet and chat with this incredible international best-selling author and icon of Australian children’s literature.

I was invited to attend Goulburn Bookfest again this year, which is held every two years in the Goulburn Mulwarree Library.

Goulburn is a lovely little country town in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales, just an hour drive north-east of Canberra and about two hours or so, driving south-west of Sydney.

Each bookfest, famous authors are invited to present talks, workshops and hold debates over a Friday night and Saturday. It is a great opportunity for the readers of the community to come together to learn from these amazingly talented people. It is also a wonderful opportunity for local authors to become involved through participating in the Author Alley that lines the library as people head towards one of the rooms where the presentations are held.

The Author Alley at Goulburn Bookfest.

The Author Alley at Goulburn Bookfest.

A couple of days before I attended I posted a comment on Facebook that I hoped I would have the chance to meet Mem Fox, but I doubted I would have any possibility of that dream coming true. Mem was one of the first speakers in the room near where I was sitting with my books. It was a great spot to be able to snap a photo through the window, even though I couldn’t hear whatever she was speaking about. I was satisfied with that and didn’t give it another thought throughout the day.

Mem Fox speaking to a sold-out crowded room of fans.

Fast forward to just after 5 pm and I decided it was probably time I took my cup back to the tearoom to wash it up. To my surprise and delight, guess who was sitting in there having a quiet coffee? Mem Fox was chatting to only one other person. The rest of the room was empty, so I asked if I could join them. After a while, I was brave enough to ask if I could go and get my phone to take a quick selfie with her. Mem Fox was so gracious and kind and of course agreed. It was such a special moment, you can see the excitement on my face. This will be a memory that will last a life-time for this somewhat unknown children’s author,

Mem Fox and me.

I didn’t get the chance to meet Kate Forsyth, that too would have been a dream come true. I have previously done a writing masterclass with her, which I adored. At least, I managed another quick photo through the glass while she presented.

mot the greatest photo of Kate Forsyth, but at least a took one.

Then there is the wonderful illustrator Danielle McDonald. I have known Danielle for many years as we have both been members of SCBWI ACT for ages. We don’t get the chance to catch-up very often, but it is absolutely lovely when we do. Danielle is kept very busy illustrating the junior fiction series The Ella Diaries written by Meredith Costain. as well as other series by the same amazing author.

The wonderful illustrator Danielle McDonald and I.

I also enjoyed sharing the day with my writing buddy Jacqueline De Rose-Ahern who had the table next to mine. Jacqui and I have been helping each other along this writing journey for many years, encouraging each other and helping with editing. It is always a privilege to spend time with her and push each other out of our comfort zones. We had fun chatting with the other authors lining the alley, including a few mischievous games to keep us occupied when things were quiet that were spurred on by the hilarious Rhian Williams. I think Rhian could have kept us entertained for hours.

My wonderful friend and fellow author, Jacqueline De Rose-Ahern.

It is always such a joy to spend a day with other like minded people who like writing books and sharing their knowledge about marketing, writing or whatever.

If you could spend a day with an author who would it be?

Who is the one famous author you dream of meeting?

Teaching Resources for Tracks in the Mist

Teaching resources for a children’s book are often part of the package. They are an essential resource to use in the classroom when reading with students for an holistic and educational response to the book. Teachers appreciate resources that cover every part of the curriculum and when they find these readily available are more likely to select your book for use. Often authors take this for granted.

Here on my website you will find resources available for Fossil Frenzy, A Lighthouse in Time and Frazzled Freya. I have had the resources for Dragons Drumming and now Tracks in the Mist, ready for some time, however I am still waiting for my website manager, my son, to get around to setting up their pages. It seems you can’t get good tech support these days when it’s free. Haha.

In the meantime, for those teacher/librarians who may wish to take advantage of the resources for Tracks in the Mist, I am posting them here. These are with great thanks to Romi Sharp from Just Write For Kids On an Educational Hike with Tracks in the Mist who spent much time reading, researching and planning these activities for me.

Tracks in the Mist the Adamson Adventures 4

Middle grade readers will be gripped with their sturdiest hiking boots in this mysterious, intrepid mission to save more than one beloved creature. Tracks in the Mist is the highly-anticipated finale in the Adamson Adventures series by Sandra Bennett for readers from age eight to twelve (and beyond). Today we will explore a few ideas to incorporate into your lessons following your reading, including English, Science/STEAM, Sustainability and Visual Arts. So, let’s get tracking!

Discussion 

Before Reading: Ask students to recall the story of the Adamson siblings and their adventures so far. What do you think Tracks in the Mist might be about? What does the cover make you wonder?

After Reading:

Where did the story take place? Are you familiar with this area? Locate the area on a map.

What did you learn about the characters? Were any of their behaviours surprising, predictable, or unexpected?

How did the findings of the captive animals make you feel?

What is the main lesson or messages the author is intending to portray?

What is your favourite part, and why?

Has this book inspired you to learn more and act on wildlife conservation practices? Why, and how will you go about it?

Activities

For ages 8 to 12.

English

Character Profile

Years 3 & 4 English: AC9E3LA02 AC9E3LA06 AC9E3LA07 AC9E3LA08 AC9E4LA08 AC9E4LA11

Years 5 & 6 English: AC9E5LA08 AC9E5LE03 AC9E5LE04 AC9E5LE05 AC9E6LE05

Create a character profile sheet about one of the main characters, Luke, Clare or Zac, or Zoe the Demon Duck of Doom. Include adjectives, fun facts and a picture. Think about the way they speak/act, their impact on others and what they look like.

Persuasive Writing

Years 3 & 4 English: AC9E3LA03 AC9E3LA04 AC9E4LA03 AC9E4LA04 AC9E4LA09 AC9E4LA12 AC9E4LE02 AC9E3LE03 AC9E4LE03 AC9E3LE05 AC9E4LE05 AC9E3LY06 AC9E3LY07 AC9E4LY06 AC9E4LY07

Years 5 & 6 English: AC9E5LA04 AC9E6LA08 AC9E5LE04 AC9E5LE05 AC9E6LE05 AC9E5LY03 AC9E5LY06 AC9E5LY07 AC9E6LY06 AC9E6LY07

Choose the viewpoint of either the siblings or the researchers and write a persuasive text either arguing for or against the need to study a prehistoric creature, such as the Demon Duck of Doom or the Thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger), if you were to come across one in the wild. Include an introductory paragraph with their opinion, supporting arguments and a conclusion to sum up their reasoning.

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics)

Animal Study and 3D Model

Years 3 & 4 Science: Biological sciences: AC9S3U01 AC9S4U01 AC9S4H01 AC9S3H02 AC9S3I01 AC9S4I01 AC9S3I02 AC9S4I03 AC9S3I04 AC9S4I04 AC9S3I05 AC9S3I06 AC9S4I06

Years 5 & 6 Science: Biological sciences: AC9S5U01 AC9S6U01 AC9S5H01 AC9S6H01 AC9S5U04 AC9S5H02 AC9S6H02 AC9S5I01 AC9S5I02 AC9S6I02 AC9S6I03 AC9S5I04 AC9S5I05 AC9S6I05 AC9S5I06 AC9S6I06

Years 3 & 4 Visual Art: AC9AVA4E01 AC9AVA4D01 AC9AVA4C01 AC9AVA4P01

Years 5 & 6 Visual Art: AC9AVA6E01 AC9AVA6D01 AC9AVA6C01 AC9AVA6P01

Cross-curriculum priority – Sustainability: SS2 SW1 SD1 SD2 SD3

Additional information on the animals from Tracks in the Mist the Adamson Adventures 4.

Students research and write / draw about their favourite animal from Tracks in the Mist (refer to the index ‘About the Animals’), including our present-day wildlife. Find out about its characteristics, special abilities, habitat, food, breeding, and so on.

Students can:

• Write and complete a detailed diagram about the animal’s life cycle.

• Research and write a report / chart / slideshow all about their chosen animal, including interesting facts and information, a map of their location, and photos and pictures.

• Make a 3D sculpture of their animal using natural or recycled/upcycled materials.

• Find out conservation methods to ensure the survival of their animal (or what has been done in the past).

• Share their findings and encourage sustainability and wildlife conservation practices amongst the community.

Animal tracks from Tracks in the Mist the Adamson Adventures 4.

Animal Tracks

Students study different animal tracks with the following activities:

• Refer to the index of Tracks in the Mist: ‘Animal Tracks’ for a list of species and their footprints. Discuss what you notice. Compare the shapes, sizes and patterns of the tracks.

• Copy sets of these tracks and play ‘Snap’ or ‘Memory’ and identify the correct animal with the picture.

• Make your own tracks using toys or tools in sand, playdough or dirt. Ask a friend to guess the animal.

• Visit your local garden or park and hunt for animal tracks on the ground. Observe and predict what animal made the tracks. Sketch or photograph your findings.

Do you use teaching resources supplied by authors in your classroom? Do you find them helpful?

As an author, do you supply teaching resources for your books?

A Writer's Pilgrimage

5 Incredible Locations, 5 Amazing Authors.

As someone who loves to read and write and is an advocate for literacy, it’s only natural that when we were on holidays recently, that I would seek out the locations where some of my favourite authors have written their children’s books.

Beatrix Potter

Everyone know this famous writer and illustrator of the most gorgeous picture books with the most absolutely adorable little bunnies and friends as characters. My childhood was filled with her stories as were my children’s and grandchildren’s and I’m sure yours too. While staying in the Lakes District of England it was a definite must that I visited her cosy cottage.

Just a bit of a walk up the hill from the quaint little village of Hawkeshead lies Beatrix Potter’s 17th Century cottage called Hill Top. It was bequeathed to the National Trust along with 4,000 acres and 15 farms when she died in 1943. While the National Trust walks through many of the acres are all free and well maintained trails, there is an entry fee to the cottage, but for fans of Pater Rabbit, it is so worth paying to visit.

Mr McGregor’s vegetable garden is smaller than I expected, but it was wonderful to see it well kept with tools and a watering can left laying around as if Beatrix Potter or Mr McGregor were still there. Inside, as you wander around each little room, there are books open to pages where you can see the scenes that she drew from different perspectives in the house. In one of the rooms upstairs you can try on several hats just like the Puddle-Ducks did in the Tale of Tom Kitten. To my surprise and delight there is also a manuscript draft that you are invited to turn the pages of and look through.

While Beatrix Potter did not actually live in this cottage, her home was another farm across the road that is not open to the public, she did spend many days here finding inspiration and writing. For avid readers of her beautiful tales, this is a must visit place on my tourist list. Bookings are essential as they try to limit the number of people going through at one time.

William Wordsworth

Still in the Lakes District, in Grasmere, the town where we stayed, you will find the William Wordsworth Hotel, the churchyard where he is buried and Dove cottage where he lived with his family from 1799 to 1808. It is said that it is here among the rolling hills around Grasmere that he found most of his inspiration for writing his poetry. Up towards the back of his gardens is a sheltered seated area where he could look out across the valley to the lake and the hills beyond. Sadly there are a few buildings now blocking part of the view, but you can still get an idea of the gorgeous scene that he could see. Wordsworth and his sister walked around the area for miles daily. I certainly took the opportunity to do several beautiful walks myself.

One of his most famous poems is The Daffodils or I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud. Here are the first few lines -

I wandered lonely as a cloud

that floats on high o’ver vale and hills,

When all at once I saw a crowd

A host, of golden daffodils.

Beside the lake, beneath the trees,

Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

As you sit overlooking Dove Cottage or wander the hills of Grasmere, it is certainly evident how inspired he was to write this poem. As luck would have it, we were there in early Spring when the daffodils were in bloom everywhere, adding to the ambiance and atmosphere.

Inside his cottage is set-up just as Wordsworth left it. You can imagine him writing at the table by the warmth of the fire with his young children playing at his feet. On the property is also a museum where you learn more about this fascinating man and his love for nature. Wordsworth was so forward thinking for his time that not only did he write a guide to the Lakes District for visitors and hikers, he also encouraged the area to become National Property, which later inspired the establishment of the National trust and National Parks. There is also a fee to enter Dove Cottage and the museum, bookings are essential.

J.K. Rowling

On arriving in Edinburgh, one of the first places I wanted to visit was the Elephant Café, known as the place where Jo Rowling penned the first drafts of the Harry Potter books. These books inspired a new generation to read, a generation that included my own three boys. Can you imagine my disappointment when the concierge at our hotel said that the café had burnt down a year ago. We decided to at least take a walk and find the street where it had once stood. To my surprise and delight there was a note on the door that gave directions to the new location where the café had moved to after the fire. It was only a short walk around the corner into the street that is said to have been the inspiration for Diagon Alley. I had wanted to see this street anyway, so it was a bonus to find the Elephant Café now set-up right in the middle of tone side of the street.

As we entered the building and climbed the stairs I was excited and overjoyed. It felt like entering into the world of witchcraft and Harry Potter. We sat at a table by a window that overlooked the incredible scenes of the street below. I found it intoxicating and exhilarating to be there. We sipped on peppermint tea and nibbled delicious mouth-watering shortbread and soaked in the atmosphere.

Memorabilia of J.K. Rowling and her time there was everywhere on the old stone walls and heavy thick timber rafters and window frames. I could image this resembling The Three Broomsticks Inn in Hogsmeade, the village near Hogwarts.

JK Rowling’s writing desk in the original building looked out a window to the view of Edinburgh Castle just a little way up the hill. There is no such window in the new café, instead there is a framed window with the image of the castle just as she would have seen it. While this is obviously an image, it still gives the appearance and feel for what it would have been like to sit there and ponder the drafts while filling her mind with imagination. I was thrilled to be able to write a note in the book placed on the table, maybe one day, JK will read my message.

Hans Christian Anderson

I grew up with the fairy tales of this Danish children’s author. Some of my favourites were, Thumbelina, The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, The Emperor’s New Clothes and The Princess and the Pea, just to name a few.

On arrival in Copenhagen, Denmark, it was wonderful to come across a tall bronze statue of this famous author from my childhood. He is seated wearing a suit and top hat and holds a cane in one hand and a book in the other. We had caught the train into town from Aarhus where my nephew lives, as he was taking us on a walking tour of the city and a visit to the National Museum. I had not given any thought to finding this statue, so when we stumbled across it, I was delighted.

I had hoped however, to see the statue of the Little Mermaid. My nephew was not so keen, he believed it was too touristy and impossible to get a good photo because of all the crowds So I had to be content with a glimpse from the boat while on a river cruise.

He did take us for a walk along the beautiful and colourful canal, and showed me where H.C Anderson had lived. I took a photo of the plaque on the wall and sat on the steps at the front door where he had stepped so many times. The house is in private ownership, so there was no going inside to explore.

Kenneth Grahame

On our return to London, we stayed a few days with Hubby’s cousin. He just so happens to live just around the corner from the woodlands of Bisham near the picturesque village of Cookham Dean with it’s beautiful views over the Thames Valley and river. Kenneth Grahame spent his childhood exploring and playing in these woods and returned as an adult to write the magnificent and memorable Wind in the Willows.

As we roamed the many twisting trails we played spot the squirrel and I could image Toad, Mole, Badger, Ratty and the weasels chasing each other through the long grasses, purple flowering fields and climbing the trees.

Like Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter, I think many people would have fond memories of reading Wind in the Willows during their childhood. I certainly do and loved my afternoon breathing in the fresh country air and filling my mind with imagination.

My writer’s pilgrimage complete, I was ready to come home.

These are my 5 top picks for incredible places to visit about 5 amazing authors. I could have added Alnwick Castle in Northumbria, as it too was so much fun reliving Harry Potter scenes and making memories, but I think this post has been long enough.

If you could travel anywhere in the world to see where your favourite author wrote your favourite book, where would you go and why?

Travel and Adventure Go Hand in Hand.

It’s been a few months since I wrote my monthly blog post. Where have I been? I have been travelling, making memories, experiencing new environments and discovering adventures.

I love nature, and exploring the country is my happy place. This time I was not confined to Australia, as we travelled to the UK and parts of of Europe. It was an experience of a lifetime and inspiration for what I am sure will be at least one new adventure story, if not, a new series.

When we were last in Tasmania, we explored many wilderness areas on foot that culminated in my being able to write Tracks in the Mist, The Adamson Adventures 4. I can only imagine at the moment where my latest adventure will lead my writing.

Several places we visited stood out and are sure to be great resources for my creativity.

The Lakes District, England.

Four places here stood out and set my mind and senses tingling with ideas and possibilities.

Twice we walked around Gracemere Lake and the surrounding hills. We found moss covered dry stone walls, intricate and beautifully designed gates that lead into magnificent gardens that begged me to enter and explore. Sadly they were private, so the gates remained closed, but I did stop to take in the ambience and imagine where the beautiful stone winding path might lead as it wound through thick ferns and gardens, across a stone arched bridge with a babbling brook below and further beyond stone stairs that disappeared among the vibrant green hues of the flora. We followed Heritage Trust trails through meandering fields, along a crystal clear blue water’s edge of the lake and up into the splendour of the mountains. Trails climbed the hillsides rough and rocky at times. We jumped trickling streams and stopped to marvel at the view. Could this be the place where fairies flutter as they scatter and laugh wistfully in the gentle breeze? One trail eventually lead us to a cave. At the entrance it had large stepping-stones through freezing water, the depths of which I didn’t particularly want to fall into. Could this be the opening to a dragon’s lair?

My gloved hands touched cold standing stones in not one, but three stones circles. Only one of these was in the Lakes District, the other two were on the Orkney Islands. Each were however, in open wind swept fields and drizzling rain. Could they be time portals that lead to another dimension? I cannot say, but I did ask my hubby to follow me through just in case I suddenly disappeared.

Then there was the cascading waterfall, with torrents of water that gushed over the edge and roared as it fell to the river waiting below. I traversed many steps and crossed more stone bridges with both the descent and return ascent, all the while wondering what could have been lurking in the rushing water or hiding beneath an arched bridge.

Lastly, an old ruined castle and it’s enticing gardens. I followed a trail through tall trees that first opened to a magnificent view of the sweeping valley below with a little village almost hidden in the distance. Continuing along the track as gravel crunched underfoot I imagined a lost castle snuggled among the thicket of lush green.

Lucerne, Switzerland.

This old town was definitely enchanting as it sat encircling a river and beautiful blue bay. One of the oldest covered wooden bridges in Europe crossed the river in a long arc that invited visitors to traverse as they examined the medieval paintings that adorned its triangular support beams. High atop a hill snuggled behind the town was a magnificent white chateau that beckoned me to explore. This fairy tale castle had to be the home of fantasy and royalty. Timber stair cases with age worn steps climbed as they wound their way up though tall turrets that lead to secret chambers. Long corridors with huge thick timber doors opened into more mysterious rooms. Then hidden out the back beckoned a tall pine forest full of aroma that tingled the senses as I filled my lungs with fresh mountain pine filled air. After passing a massive pile of wood cuttings that instantly brought to mind an old woodcutter spending his days harvesting, I discovered smoke that wafted from a tiny timber cottage. Was it the home of the woodcutter or a witch stirring a cauldron with her latest magic brew? As we followed trails that lead further into the forest I imagined mischievous goblins and pixies that could be a problem to the unsuspecting traveller.

Who knows where these memories will lead my imagination just yet. There was so much atmosphere to soak up that I need a little time to take it all in and let it simmer in my mind. These above mentioned places are just the beginning. I’m sure a story will emerge, just like Tracks in the Mist did after visiting Tasmania. if you’re keen to read how that adventure turned out, or any of the others in the series, you can purchase a signed copy of the book Here.

What sort of adventure do you think I should write from my recent travel experience?

What would you like to see me write next?

Have you ever travelled and thought about turning it into an adventure story?

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.