W H E R E S T O RI E S ME E T
WHERE
STORIES
MEET
Melbourne Writers Festival
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
Schools Program 2009
Each year we welcome more than 10,000 primary and secondary school students to MWF and this program
would not be possible without the wonderful support from the following:
Major Sponsors
Supporters
Paul and Angela Riggs, Salon Productions
Bettie Kornhauser
HELLO
Welcome to the 2009 Melbourne Writers Festival.
Panel Partners
Centre for Youth Literature, State Library of Victoria
We are delighted to bring you a diverse mix of
In a wonderful development we are able to take the
Express Media
writers, thinkers and artists to discuss the ideas
Schools Program out to regional Victoria in an effort
Victorian Association for the Teaching of English (VATE)
that are central to their work. In 2009 we’ve
to enhance the literary opportunities for all readers
developed an even more extensive and rewarding
across the state. I’d like to thank both the Helen
Schools Programming Committee
program than ever before, while keeping our ticket
McPherson Smith Trust and Regional Arts Victoria for
prices to the same low price of $6/ticket.
their support of this program, and for full details and
Christine Andell
We hope the program will assist to enrich your own
how to book, see pages 12-13.
Nikki Anderson
reading experience, and promote the ways in which
We’re again able to present Write Across Victoria –
Pam Macintyre
writing and reading are engaged in our schools.
our writing competition for students in years 7, 8 &
Anna Ryan-Punch
We’re very proud of our line-up of guests and
9. I would particularly like to thank Bettie Kornhauser
Mike Shuttleworth
I’d like to thank them all for their creativity, their
for her support of this competition – we are now able
Kerry Smyth
courage and their authenticity – I’d also like to
to offer a prize pool which includes $1500 of cash
Chris Wheat
thank them for being part of our festival!
prizes on top of thousands of dollars worth of books!
See page 4 for details.
To single out authors seems like a crime, but I must
make mention of our fabulous international guests:
Finally I’d like to thank all those who’ve helped
John Boyne, China Miéville and Scott Westerfeld,
me bring this program into being. In particular I’d
in addition to the wonderful array of Australian
like to thank the MWF Festival Director Rosemary
authors who join us again, including Morris
Cameron and all my colleagues in the festival office.
Gleitzman, Isobelle Carmody, Andy Griffiths and
I’d also like to thank our supporters at the Centre
Justine Larbalestier. But it doesn’t end there – no
for Youth Literature (at the State Library of Victoria),
no no!
Express Media (and Voiceworks magazine) and at
the Victorian Association for the Teaching of English
We have an array of talent for your enjoyment and
Regional Tour Partners
(VATE) – these important organizations help make
edification, and I hope you’ll spend some time with
much of what we do possible.
both our better-known authors, as well as with those
who are on the rise. As in past years we’ve mixed the
Finally, an especial mention goes to the Schools
new with the established so that you can tell your
Programming Committee – they are my vital link to
friends and colleagues that you saw them here first!
the many varied streams of writing for young people,
and they provide so many of the ideas that find
In a couple of other firsts we have included a new
culmination in this program.
venue in our Fed Square Schools Program – the
Festival Club. We look forward to you enjoying this
I hope you have a wonderful time at the festival, and I
intimate space. We have also broadened our range
look forward to seeing you there.
Education Partner
of free events – and I’d like to thank all those who’ve
Best wishes,
made this possible, including Paul and Angela Riggs,
and the National Gallery of Victoria. If you believe
SAstevsociate G
e Director rimwade
that you or your school should qualify for access to
this program, please call the festival office on (03)
9645 9244, or email me (steve@mwf.com.au).
2
3
Melbourne Writers Festival
VCE EVEnTS
Schools Program 2009
write across Victoria Monday 24 August Tuesday 25 August Wednesday 26 August
Write Across Victoria is a creative writing
Over $3000 in cash &
5pm–6pm
5pm–6pm
5pm–6pm
competition for Victorian students in
years 7–9. Simply choose your favourite
prizes to be won!
Spotlight on Paul Kelly
Spotlight on Hannie
Spotlight on Raimond
story starter and finish the story for the
& his Lyrics
Rayson & Inheritance
Gaita & Romulus,
The overall winner will receive:
chance to win some great prizes and have
Paul Kelly is one of Australia’s
Hannie Rayson is one of
My Father
your story published in Express Media’s
- $500 cash!
most loved songwriters,
Australia’s most important
Raimond Gaita is a renowned
Voiceworks magazine, and online.
- Books to the value of $500
singing songs from the heart
playwrights and an award-
philosopher, academic and
- Books to the value of $500 for their
and telling stories that involve
winning author of 11 plays,
author of Romulus, My Father.
#1 Isobelle Carmody
school library
us all. Listen to a conversation
including Inheritance and Hotel
This book won the Victorian
- A subscription to Voiceworks magazine
with Paul about his work – why
Sorrento. Join her for this
Premier’s Literary Award for
It all started with me going to pick up a cat.
and how it was created – and
conversation about Inheritance
non-fiction in 1998, and a
You would never imagine so much weirdness
One boy and one girl from each year
ask him your own questions.
and the questions at the core of
feature film adaptation of the
could come from doing a good deed. My
level (7, 8 and 9) will each win:
Let’s get him talking about
this great saga. Inheritance has
book starring Eric Bana was
neighbour, Mrs Reingold, had broken her ankle.
- $150 cash!
his songwriting and his book
played in Melbourne and Sydney,
released in 2007. Raimond has
Old people’s bones are brittle as breadsticks.
- Books to the value of $100
Don’t Start Me Talking: Lyrics
won two Helpmann Awards, and
contributed extensively to a
So the next thing she is asking in this quavery
- A subscription to Voiceworks magazine
1984–2004. 2415
was adapted as a four-part radio
number of public discussions
voice if I can go and get her dear kitty from
play for ABC Radio National in
and this is your chance to
the quarantine.
The prizes for Write Across Victoria
have been generously supported by
6.30pm–7.30pm
2007. 2515
discuss Romulus, My Father with
the author himself. 2615
#2 Andy Griffiths
Bettie Kornhauser.
Exploring Issues of
Identity & Belonging
The night was dark and stormy. The toilet light
6.30pm–7.30pm
This panel will ‘explore issues
6.30pm–7.30pm
was dim. We heard a crash. We heard a splash.
How to enter
The Imaginative
of identity and belonging’
Encountering Conflict
Landscape
“My god, he’s fallen in!” said my mother. She
1. Select one of the three story starters by
from a range of perspectives,
This panel will explore the idea
turned to me. “Can you go and get him out?”
Isobelle Carmody, Andy Griffiths and Jack
so to better prepare students
This panel will explore ‘the
of ‘encountering conflict’ from
studying this particular context
imaginative landscape’ from
“Why me?” I said.
Heath
a range of perspectives, so to
2. Continue the narrative, completing the
as part of their VCE year.
a range of perspectives, so to
better prepare students studying
“Because he’s your father,” said Mum.
story in 500 words
Join in the discussion with
better prepare students studying
this particular context as part
“That’s why.”
3. Email your entry to steve@mwf.com.au
playwright Joanna Murray-
this particular context as part
of their VCE year. Join in the
with ‘WAV entry’ in the subject field
Smith (author of Bombshells),
of their VCE year. Join in the
discussion with author Bruce
#3 Jack Heath
author Alice Pung (editor of
discussion with film expert
All entries must include:
Growing Up Asian in Australia)
Pascoe (author of Convincing
Gary Simmons as he discusses
“You’re not really here.”
Ground), as he discusses Kate
1. First name and surname
and Kon Karapanagiotidis
Ray Lawrence’s Jindabyne,
I frowned. “Pardon?”
Grenville’s The Secret River,
2. Age, gender and year level
(from the Asylum Seeker
academic and author Tony
“You’re not here,” the woman repeated,
Resource Centre). This
in addition to Mischa Merz
Birch, and author Anthony
turning to face me. Her irises looked
3. Your chosen story starter (1, 2 or 3)
session will be chaired by
(journalist and boxer) and Maria
Eaton (Darklands and Into White
luminescent in the neon glow of the subway
4. Teacher’s name and email address
a representative from the
Pallotta-Chiarolli, as they all
Silence), as they discuss the ways
station. “You can’t be.”
(or telephone number)
Victorian Association for the
discuss the various aspects of
I shifted across the bench, escaping inches
5. School name and address
they connect to, and imagine,
Teaching of English (VATE).
conflict. There’ll be time to ask
at a time. Who was this lunatic?
the landscape. There’ll be time
Entries close 7pm Monday 31 August, 2009
2416
your own questions, and this
to ask your own questions and
session will be chaired by a
this session will be chaired by a
All events are held in the
representative from the Victorian
BMW Edge Theatre, at
representative from the Victorian
Association for the Teaching of
Federation Square All tickets $6.
Association for the Teaching of
For bookings and more
English (VATE). 2616
English (VATE). 2516
information, see page 27.
Conditions of entry: This competition is open to all Victorian secondary students in years 7–9. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. One submission per
student will be accepted and entries will not be returned. The work of one overall winner and six finalists will be published online at www.education.theage.com.au, www.mwf.com.au and
5
www.expressmedia.org.au. The overall winner will also be published in Voiceworks magazine. Entries close 7pm Monday 31 August 2009. Winners will be notified by email on Monday 2 November.
Melbourne Writers Festival
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
Schools Program 2009
BMW Edge
ACMI 2
ACMI 1
Festival Club
ArtPlay
BMW Edge
ACMI 2
ACMI 1
Festival Club
ArtPlay
10am
Laughter is the
Truth,
Thrills & Spills
Philosophy & Me The Magic
–10.45am Best Medicine
History, Fiction
Jack Heath is a
Join Lia Hills
in History
How do you
Join Julia
great example
in discussing
Join Gabrielle
balance
Lawrinson &
for aspiring
philosophy, life,
Wang in a
humour and
Kirsty Murray
young writers: he death and her first discussion of how
drama to create
12noon - 12.30pm
in this discussion
started his first
novel A Beginner’s she brings the
well-rounded
about the
novel, The Lab, at
Guide to Living.
magical and the
FREE Join Aussie hip-hop superstar Urthboy
stories? Morris
subtle alchemy
age 13 and now,
This is a book
ghostly into her
Gleitzman
(from The Herd) and MC Geoff Lemon,
was
of combining
aged 23, he has a
about grief, ideas
writing, and how
named Favourite
POETRY as they entertain and challenge you in
research, personal three-book deal
and experience,
her books also
Australian
this free poetry reading in the Atrium.
experience and
with Scholastic US and those little
speak of history
Author 1999 in
No bookings necessary.
real stories into
(the publishers of
moments that can and culture.
In THE
the Dymocks
(ALL) 2494
compelling and
Harry Potter) for
change your life
Gabrielle’s latest
Booksellers
Supported by Paul and Angela Riggs,
authentic fiction.
his Six of Hearts
forever. Lia is an
book is A Ghost in
ATRIUM
Children’s Choice
Salon Productions
Both Julia and
series. Join him
award-winning
My Suitcase.
Awards and won
Kirsty are
in discussing the
poet, novelist and (UP) 2451
Best Book for
winners of
secrets of keeping translator.
Older Readers
WA Premier’s
the pages turning. (US) 2461
2000 in the
Children’s Book
(LS) 2431
YABBA Awards
Award.
for Toad Rage.
(LS/US) 2421
(UP/LS) 2411
11.15am
John Boyne:
The Little Fur
Finding Yourself Tomorrow,
Dinosaurs
12.30pm
Shakespeare’s
The New World
Magical
In From
Making Mischief
–12noon
in Conversation
Universe
Aren’t Dead
World
characters
the Cold
Join hands
Today
- 1.15pm
Join two of the
Richard
John Boyne’s The Join the multi-
across the
Join celebrated
Join John Long
Join Andy
festival’s sci-fi
Justine
Anthony Eaton
Newsome’s
Boy In The Striped award winning
Tasman Sea,
novelist Kirsty
as he takes
Griffiths and
superstars, Scott
Larbalestier
went to Antarctica The Billionaire’s
Pyjamas was
Isobelle Carmody as multi award-
Murray, winner
you around the
Tony Thompson
Westerfeld and
talks about how
to research his
Curse was the
world exploring
an international
discussing her
winning New
of WA Premier’s
as they discuss
China Miéville,
she populates
latest novel, Into
inaugural winner
for fossils and
bestseller and
creations in the
Zealand author
Children’s Book
what the famous
as they discuss
her novels
White Silence. His
of the Text
recreating the
is now a major
Little Fur series,
Kate de Goldi
Award, as she
the boundaries of
Publishing
past. What does
Will Shakespeare
with magical
experiences there
motion picture
including her most and Australian
discusses her
it take to bring
means to them.
science and fiction. characters. In her
had an enormous
Young Adult Prize.
about two
recent book
favourite Archie
latest work,
these worlds to
Andy is the
How does fiction
latest novel: How
impact on the way Join Richard
young people
The Worlds
Fusillo join forces. Vulture’s Gate.
life on the page?
award-winning
repackage Earthly
to Ditch Your Fairy, he sees himself
as he discusses
caught up in the
of Little Fur.
In this session
Kirsty will explain
John is the Head
author of the Just themes into other
every character
as a writer of
the connection
frightful drama
Isobelle’s
they’ll use their
the personal
of Sciences at
series, including
worldly packages?
has its own
fiction. In this
between Indiana
of the Holocaust
Obernewtyn
current works
challenge and
Museum Victoria
the world’s
What are the rules
personal fairy.
session, Anthony
Jones and
and the Second
Chronicles and
of fiction to
excitement of
and his books
silliest version of
of science fiction,
How does Justine will discuss his
Enid Blyton,
World War. John
her short stories
discuss how to
setting her latest
include The Big
Macbeth, while
and how do you
come up with her
experiences
and how his
will discuss the
have established
find yourself in
novel in the world Picture Book,
Tony will discuss
break them? All of
magical ideas?
researching fiction characters keep
characters and
her at the
a world which is
of the future, and
The Dinosaur
what he has
Scott’s books in the And what does
in the remote
the story moving.
themes of this
forefront of
not as simple
what this means
Dealers, The Big
uncovered in his
Uglies series have
her own personal
wilderness of
(UP) 2453
moving and
fantasy writing
as it is seems.
for today.
Picture Book of
research into the
made the New York fairy look like?
Antarctica, and
delicate story.
in Australia.
(US) 2432
(UP/LS) 2462
Environments,
seedy world of
Times Bestsellers
Justine is a multi
the effect that this
and his latest is
(LS/US) 2412
(UP) 2422
Shakespeare.
List, while China
award-winning
journey has had
The Big Picture
(UP/LS) 2413
has won two
author of six
on his own life and
Book of Human
Arthur C. Clarke
books, including
craft. (US) 2463
Civilisation.
(UP) 2452
awards for his
the Magic or
speculative fiction.
Madness trilogy.
(LS/US) 2423
(LS) 2433
MOnDAY 24TH AUGUST
LEGEND
UP = Upper Primary
LS = Lower Secondary US = Upper Secondary
ALL = All!
2511 = Event code
Years 5-7
Years 7-9
Years 10-11
Years 5-11
6
7
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
Schools Program 2009
BMW Edge
ACMI 2
ACMI 1
Festival Club
ArtPlay
BMW Edge
ACMI 2
ACMI 1
Festival Club
ArtPlay
10am
Rules of
Morris
No Worries?
Fitting In
Thrillers for
– 10.45am Invention
Gleitzman: in
Kate de Goldi and Join Randa Abdel- Beginners
What are the
Conversation
Chris Wheat reveal Fattah, author of
Chris Morphew
rules of invention?
Join Morris
how their characters Does My Head
is one of the real
How do you make
Gleitzman for
get through the hard Look Big In This?
names behind a
imaginary worlds
this discussion
times, and how they and Ten Things I
very popular boys’
12noon - 12.30pm
real? Isobelle
about his books,
use humour in their
Hate About Myself, series and is author
FREE
Carmody and
Join spoken word superstar Alicia
including Once,
books as a balance
both works tackling of The Phoenix
Justine Labalastier
Sometimes and MC Geoff Lemon, as
Then and Children to the worries of
what it’s like to be
Files. Join him as
wil discuss how
POETRY they entertain and challenge you in
Overboard. Morris
real life. Kate’s most
different in Australia, he discusses the
they paint new
this free poetry reading in the Atrium.
was named
recent book is The
worlds without the
and that whatever
influences behind
No bookings necessary.
Favourite Australian 10pm Question,
In THE
brushstrokes. These
your heritage, you
his work, and why
(ALL) 2594
Author 1999 in
while Chris is the
two wonderful and
don’t have to be
all stories benefit
author of four novels
Supported by Paul and Angela Riggs,
well-respected
the Dymocks
different to feel
from the addition
ATRIUM Salon Productions
for young adults,
fantasy writers will
Booksellers
strange.
of mystery and
including his latest,
take you elsewhere, Children’s Choice
(US) 2561
spaceships.
Screw Loose.
effortlessly.
Awards, and in this
(UP) 2551
(US) 2531
(UP/LS) 2511
absorbing session
he talks about
Supported by the
Supported by the
Victorian Association
Centre for Youth
his books and
for the Teaching of
Literature, State
characters.
English (VATE)
Library of Victoria
(LS) 2521
11.15am
What’s Funny?
Place, in Space
Tough love
How to
Dinosaurs
12.30pm
John Boyne:
How I Became
Harnessing
Nerds,
Making Mischief
– 12noon
Aren’t Dead
What are the
Why is setting
Join Elizabeth
Make a Book
- 1.15pm
in Conversation
a Writer
History
Blogging & the
Richard
ingredients for
so important to
Fensham as she
Melbourne writer
Join John Long
John Boyne’s The This popular
Using history to
Art of Cool
Newsome’s
good comedy?
a reader? What
discusses her verse Chris Wheat has
as he takes
Boy In The Striped session will explore nourish today’s
Join Andrew
The Billionaire’s
How do you find
elements of a
novel Goodbye
published four
you around the
Pyjamas was
the ways in which
fiction – Julia
McDonald as he
Curse was the
world exploring
it? And why is it
setting bring a
Jamie Boyd, and
books, so he is
an international
you can become a Lawrinson and
discusses how he
inaugural winner
well equipped to
for fossils and
so important
place most alive?
how she takes on
bestseller and
published author.
Tony Thompson – came about his
of the Text
lead you through
recreating the
in fiction? Join
Scott Westerfeld
gritty themes with
is now a major
Randa Abdel-
discuss the ‘story’ ideas for his book Publishing Young
the bumpy ride
past. What does
Andy Griffiths and and Anthony
a deft touch. This
motion picture
Fattah is the
in history and
and how the art
Adult Prize.
of publishing.
it take to bring
Danny Katz, two
Eaton take you
book deals with
these worlds to
about two
author Does My
how it can inform
of blogging can
Join Richard as
Joining him will
of Australia’s most through their
the sensitive issue
be his editor
life on the page?
young people
Head Look Big In
our experiences
lead to a double
he discusses
humorous writers, favourite writing
of a teenager’s
Elise Jones, and
John is the Head
caught up in the
This? and Where
today. Julia is a
life. Andrew has a the connection
as they make
techniques
schizophrenia and
together they’ll
of Sciences at
frightful drama
the Streets Had a
WA Premier’s
degree in Media
between Indiana
merry in this lively Anthony is author
was shortlisted
provide a fun
Museum Victoria
of the Holocaust
Name. Simmone
Children’s Book
Studies and his
Jones and Enid
discussion.
of the Darklands
for the Bologna
and informative
and his books
and the Second
Howell is an
Award winner and book, The Greatest Blyton, and how
(UP/LS) 2512
Trilogy and Scott is Book Fair’s White
look behind
include The Big
World War. John
award-winning
Tony is the author Blogger in the
his characters
Picture Book,
an award-winning
Raven Award
the bindings
will discuss the
writer of short
of Shakespeare:
World, will be
keep the story
and drama of
The Dinosaur
science fiction
2009). Elizabeth is
characters and
and long fiction,
the Most Famous
released in July.
moving.
book publishing,
Dealers, The Big
best known for his also author of 2006
themes of this
including her latest Man in London.
(UP/LS) 2563
(UP) 2453
including the
Picture Book of
Uglies series and
CBCA Book of the
moving and
book
Environments,
Everything
(US) 2533
publication of
whose next work,
Year Helicopter
Chris’s most
and his latest is
delicate story.
Beautiful, and Jack
Leviathan, will
Man, and Miss
recent book,
The Big Picture
(LS/US) 2513
Heath is author
appear in
McAllister’s Ghost. Screw Loose.
Book of Human
of The Lab, and is
October 2009.
(US) 2532
(LS/US) 2562
Civilisation.
a young writer at
(LS/US) 2522
(UP) 2552
the start of very
promising career.
TUESDAY 25TH AUGUST
(ALL) 2523
Supported by
Express Media
LEGEND
UP = Upper Primary
LS = Lower Secondary US = Upper Secondary
ALL = All!
2511 = Event code
Years 5-7
Years 7-9
Years 10-11
Years 5-11
8
9
Melbourne Writers Festival
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
Schools Program 2009
BMW Edge
ACMI 2
ACMI 1
Festival Club
ArtPlay
BMW Edge
ACMI 2
ACMI 1
Festival Club
ArtPlay
10am
Innocence &
On the Edge of Magical
In Shakespeare’s The Magic in
– 10.45am Experience
Your Seat
characters
Time
History
Join John Boyne & Join Jack Heath
Justine Larbalestier Tony Thompson
Join Gabrielle
Morris Gleitzman
and Chris
talks about how
is a teacher and
Wang in a
Book Launch
Poetry
as they discuss
Morphew as
she populates her
the author of
discussion of how
10.45am – 11.15am
12noon - 12.30pm
the innocence and
they discuss the
novels with magical Shakespeare: the
she brings the
The official launch of Chrissie
Join spoken word superstar Joey
experience required process they went characters. In her
Most Famous Man magical and the
Keighery’s debut YA novel, Outside
Kurtschenko (aka Crazy Elf) and MC
to write a child’s
through writing
latest novel: How to in London. His
ghostly into her
FREE In, that explores friendships, divorce, Geoff Lemon, as they entertain and
view of horror.
their own thrilling
Ditch Your Fairy,
book provides
writing, and how
body image and growing up in
challenge you in this free poetry reading in
Morris Gleitzman’s
novels, and what
every character has wonderful
her books also
In THE a deft, lyrical and moving way.
the Atrium. No bookings necessary.
books include
sets thriller writing its own personal
insight into the
speak of history
Chrissie Keighery is the author of
(ALL) 2693
Once and Then,
apart as a craft.
fairy. What does
world in which
and culture.
many successful books for children
and John’s The
Jack has written
Justine’s personal
Shakespeare
Gabrielle’s latest
ATRIUM
Supported by Paul and Angela Riggs,
including her stories in the best-
Salon Productions
Boy In The Striped several successful fairy look like? And
wrote, and the
book is A Ghost in
selling Go Girl! series.
Pyjamas was
novels including
how does Justine
life of the Bard
My Suitcase.
(ALL) 2692
an international
The Lab, and
come up with her
himself. Join Tony (UP) 2651
bestseller. Both
Chris published
magical ideas?
as he discusses
authors’ books
his debut novel:
Justine is a multi
how easy it is to
talk about the
The Phoenix Files: award-winning
fall in love with
Holocaust from a
Arrival, this year.
author of six books, the genius of
younger person’s
(LS) 2621
including the Magic Shakespeare.
point of view.
or Madness trilogy. (LS/US) 2661
(LS/US) 2611
(LS/US) 2631
11.15am
Isobelle
The Science in
Anthony Eaton: A Racy Past
A Little Lunch
Carmody: in
Fiction
in conversation.
with Danny Katz
12.30pm
Just Andy
A Thousand
Suburban
Characters with The Quentaris
– 12noon
Julia Lawrinson’s
conversation.
Join young-adult
Antony Eaton
newest book
Join Danny Katz,
- 1.15pm
This is a great
Words
nightmare
a Difference
Chronicles
Join Isobelle
and sci-fi novelist
is the author of
is set in 1950s
as he takes us
opportunity
Join Shaun Tan
Both Simmone
In this session
Paul Collins is the
Carmody,
Scott Westerfeld, a wide range of
Sydney and tells
through the
to join one
and Mandy Ord as Howell and Julia
Kate de Goldi
author of seven
author of The
and award-
fiction. Join him
the story of Erica
creation of a
of Australia’s
they look at the
Lawrinson are
explores the art
of the novels
Obernewtyn
winning comedian for this discussion who falls in with
picture book;
favourite authors
magic of graphic
young adult
of character,
in the series of
Chronicles, as
and writer Penny
of his books and
a group called
how he works
in a discussion
novels; how
authors who write and how it is
The Quentaris
she talks about
Tangey, as they
writing, from
‘The Push’. Join
with pictures and
about his writing.
they create their
about suburbia
through character Chronicles. Hear
duty, prejudice,
show the ways
Nathan Nutboard
Julia as she talks
words; and how
Andy Griffiths
work; and why
and the secrets it
that almost
from Paul as
tolerance,
that science
to Darklands, as
about writing
he likes to capture
has eighteen
graphic novels are holds. Join them
all elements
he describes
responsibility and can meet with
he discusses how
and researching
the world in his
novels under his
booming. Shaun
as they discuss
of a story are
the journey
human/animal
fiction; how to
he writes and
the novel, and of
writing. Danny has
belt, and in this
has enjoyed great the suburban
communicated.
The Quentaris
rights. Somewhere blend science into where he gets his
balancing Erica’s
written the Little
humorous and
success with his
worlds they’ve
Kate is a writer
Chronicles has
between all
writing; and why it inspiration.
need for freedom
Lunch series.
personal session,
tender picture
created and the
of short fiction,
taken and how
these themes
is such an exciting (UP/LS) 2632
and stability. Julia (UP) 2652
Andy will lead you books including
ways these have
novels and picture different writers,
lies the magical
element of any
is a winner of the
through his career The Red Tree and
encapsulated
books which
each with their
world of Isobelle
fictional world.
WA Premier’s
and discuss both
The Arrival, and
their characters
reach across
own tales to tell
Carmody’s award-
(LS/US) 2622
Prize for Young
how and why he
his most recent
and absorbed
the spectrum
of this city, add to
winning writing.
Adult Writing.
writes. Some of
book is Tales from their readership.
of readers, from
the infinite variety
(UP/LS) 2612
(LS/US) 2662
his best-selling
Outer Suburbia.
Why are local
young children
of Quentaris
titles include the
Mandy Ord is
environments
to teenagers and
(UP) 2653
Just series and
an animator,
so important for
adults. Her latest
The Day My Bum
illustrator and
setting stories?
book is The 10pm
Went Psycho.
the author of the
(US) 2633
Question.
WEDnESDAY 26TH AUGUST
(UP) 2613
beautiful graphic
(US) 2663
novel Rooftops.
(LS/US) 2623
LEGEND
UP = Upper Primary
LS = Lower Secondary US = Upper Secondary
ALL = All!
2511 = Event code
Years 5-7
Years 7-9
Years 10-11
Years 5-11
10
11
Melbourne Writers Festival
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
Schools Program 2009
REGIOnAL TOUR
The MWF hits the road!
From Monday 24th Melina Marchetta, Margo Lanagan,
Monday 24 August – Swan Hill
Margo Lanagan is an acclaimed writer of novels
David Metzenthen and Michael Hyde will
and short stories such as the multi-award-winning
to Friday 28th of August,
Venue: Harrison Theatre, Pye St, Swan Hill
participate in a range of events in Swan Hill, Kyneton,
Black Juice and Red Spikes, which was shortlisted
Bookings: 5036 2444
the MWF is taking four Moe, Frankston and Geelong, giving young readers
for the Commonwealth Writers Prize. Her latest
Price: $5 per session
the chance to quiz them on how and why they write.
offering is the long-awaited novel Tender Morsels.
of Australia’s best writers
Tuesday 25 August – Kyneton
Margo lives in Sydney.
Each venue will feature three events:
to five regional and
Venue: Kyneton Town Hall, 129 Mollison St, Kyneton
Melina Marchetta is a Sydney writer and the
Bookings: 1300 88 88 02 or email kthtickets@
bestselling author of Looking for Alibrandi. Her
outer-suburban venues. 10am–10.45am
macedon-ranges.vic.gov.au
fourth novel, Finnikin of the Rock, was published in
Fantasy and fiction
Price: $7 per session
2008, and Melina just won the prestigious Michael
Join Melina Marchetta and Margo Lanagan as they
Wednesday 26 August – Moe
L Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult
explore the boundaries of what’s real, and what’s
Literature for On the Jellicoe Road.
not. Do fantasy writers avoid reality or confront it
Venue: Moe Town Hall, 69 Albert St, Moe
David Metzenthen is a Melbourne-based writer
more directly? Are fantasies just a matter of make
Bookings: 5176 3559
creating works of Australian fiction for people of
believe, or do they say serious things?
Price: $4 per session
all ages, including books such as Boys of Blood
11.15am–12noon
Thursday 27 August – Frankston
and Bone and Stony Heart Country. Over more than
Bringing the past to life
twenty years, David has won numerous Australian
Venue: Frankston Arts Centre, Corner Davey
Premier’s Awards for his work.
Join David Metzenthen and Michael Hyde in this
and Young Streets, Frankston
Michael Hyde’s recent novels include MAX, Tyger
discussion about the subtle alchemy of combining
Bookings: 9784 1060 or email
Tyger and Hey Joe, which was named as a Notable
research, personal experience and real stories into
artscentre@frankston.vic.gov.au
Book in the 2004 CBCA Awards. Michael recently
compelling and authentic fiction. How does the
Price: FREE
edited two senior anthologies for the Australian
past give life to the present?
Friday 28 August – Geelong
Association of English Teachers (AATE), including
12.30pm–1.15pm
Venue: The Courthouse Theatre,
Hunger (CBCA Notable Book 2004) and The Girl
Characters with a difference
Little Malop Street, Geelong
who Married a Fly (CBCA Notable Book 2002).
Bookings: 5222 1212 or email
Join Margo Lanagan, Melina Marchetta and David
annmaree.harper@geelonglibraries.vic.gov.au
The MWF Regional Tour has been made possible
Metzenthen as they discuss the art to creating
Price: FREE
through the generosity of:
characters that spring from the pages, how they
get under their characters’ skin and how it’s
through character that many elements of a story
are revealed.
Please note that bookings must be made through
the regional venue, and that ticket prices are
different for each venue.
12
13
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
AUTHOR BIOS
RaNDa abDEL-Fattah
JohN boyNE
She is perhaps best known for the
Obernewtyn Chronicles and for her
Randa Abdel-Fattah’s first novel
John Boyne was born in Ireland in
novel The Gathering (joint winner
Does My Head Look Big in This? was
1971. The winner of two Irish Book
of the 1993 Children’s Literature
an instant bestseller in Australia. A
Awards, he is the author of seven
Peace Prize and the 1994 CBCA
26-year-old lawyer, born in Australia
novels, including the international
Book of the Year Award). Another
bestseller The Boy In The Striped
of Palestinian and Egyptian parents,
of her novels, Greylands, was joint
Pyjamas, which sold five million
Randa has long been active in the
winner of the 1997 Aurealis Award
copies worldwide and was made
inter-faith community; a number
for Excellence in Speculative
into a Miramax feature film. His
of Palestinian human rights
Fiction – Young Adult Division, and
latest novel The House of Special
campaigns; the Australian Arabic
was named a White Raven at the
Purpose, is a love story set over
Council, and various Australian
1998 Bologna Children’s Book Fair.
more than sixty years that moves
Muslim women networks. Randa’s
www.obernewtyn.com.au
from the dying days of the
most recent novel is Where The
Books include: Little Fur #4
Imperial Russian Court to 1920s
Streets Had A Name. She lives in
(2009)
Paris to a London hospital in
, The Stone Key, from the
Obernewtyn Chronicles (2008)
Sydney with her husband and baby
1980. John lives in Dublin.
daughter.
www.johnboyne.com
PauL coLLiNs
Books include: Where The Streets
Books include: The House of
Had A Name (2008), Does My Head
Special Purpose (2009), The Boy In
Paul Collins was born in England,
Look Big In This? (2005)
The Striped Pyjamas (2006)
raised in New Zealand and lives in
Australia. He is best known for his
toNy biRch
isobELLE caRMoDy
fantasy and science fiction titles
The Jelindel Chronicles and The
Isobelle Carmody is Australia’s
Tony Birch has published short
Quentaris Chronicles. Paul has
most highly acclaimed author of
fiction, poetry, and creative non-
edited many anthologies inclduing
fantasy titles for older readers.
fiction, and currently teaches
Trust Me! and Australia’s first fantasy
creative writing at the University
anthology, Dream Weavers. His
current fantasy project is the trilogy,
of Melbourne. He is the author of
The World of Grrym, in collaboration
Shadowboxing (Scribe) and will
with Danny Willis.
be publishing his second collection
www.paulcollins.com.au
of short stories in October 2009,
Books include: Wardragon (2008),
with Hunter Publishers.
The Spell of Undoing, from the
Quentaris Chronicles (2008)
EzRa bix
KatE DE GoLDi
Ezra won the grand final
of Poetry Idol at the 2008
Kate de Goldi spent her childhood
Melbourne Writers’ Festival, and
living and breathing stories. When
is also one of the featured poets
she wasn’t reading, she was writing
on ABC TV’s upcoming series
plays and organising performances
for her sisters, 42 cousins and
Bush Slam hosted by H.G. Nelson.
classmates. She has won a number
His first book of poetry, Dancing
of accolades for her fiction, and her
in the Lifeboat was launched in
book Clubs, illustrated by Jacqui
February 2009. Among other
Colley, won Book of the Year in
things, it looks at the issues of
the New Zealand Post Children’s
global warming, the plight of
Book Awards in 2005. In 2001,
refugees, the personality flaws
Kate was made a New Zealand Arts
of a cake, and the fruit-loopy
Foundation Laureate. Her latest
kookiness of consumerism.
novel is The 10pm Question.
Books include: Dancing in the
Books include: The 10pm Question
Lifeboat (2009)
A-D (2009) Closed, Stranger (2004)
15
Melbourne Writers Festival
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
Schools Program 2009
AUTHOR
BIOS
bRiohNy DoyLE
Premier’s Literary Award for non-
JacK hEath
inaugural Gold Inky in the Inside
Married a Fly (CBCA Notable Book
fiction in 1998, and a feature film
a Dog teen choice awards. Her
2002).
Briohny Doyle has performed her
Jack Heath was born in Sydney
adaptation of the book starring
second novel, Everything Beautiful,
Books include: Hey Joe (2003),
own spoken word at the State
in 1986. His second novel
Eric Bana was released in 2007 and
Remote
was published in Australia, the US
Tyger Tyger (2001)
Library of NSW, the Art Gallery of
won the AFI award for Best Film.
Control, was shortlisted for science
and the UK in 2008.
NSW, the Sydney Writers’ Festival
Books include:
fiction book of the year in the
ELisE JoNEs
and the MCA, and has published
The Philosopher’s Dog (2002),
2007 Aurealis Awards, and he has
www.simmonehowell.com
criticism and poetry in Overland,
Romulus, My Father (1999)
been named the 2009 ACT Young
Books include: Everything
Elise Jones completed her Diploma
Cordite, Voiceworks and Going
Australian of the Year. His hobbies
Beautiful (2008), Notes from the
of Professional Writing & Editing at
Down Swinging. In 2009 she
MoRRis GLEitzMaN
include music, magic tricks, and
Teenage Underground (2006)
Chisholm Institute of TAFE in 2000
completed a novel, was commended
making horrible things happen
where she won the Herb Thomas
Morris Gleitzman grew up in
in the Judith Wright Poetry Prize
to fictional people. Jack teaches
MichaEL hyDE
Memorial Award. Following this she
England and came to Australia
and received an Australia Council
a creative writing course at the
worked as a freelance editor for five
when he was sixteen. He was a
Michael Hyde’s recent novels
New Work Grant to develop a
Canberra Institute of Technology
years, which included managing
frozen chicken thawer, sugar-
spoken word show.
mill rolling-stock unhooker, TV
www.passionpoppistol.blogspot.com
producer, newspaper columnist
aNthoNy EatoN
and screenwriter. Now he’s one
of Australia’s most popular
Anthony Eaton’s first book, The
D - G
include Hey Joe, MAX and Tyger
and he signed a three-book deal
Allen & Unwin’s kids’ submissions,
Tyger. Hey Joe—about the Vietnam
with Scholastic US (the publishers of
and editing the Australian Rationalist.
War, the movement against it and
Harry Potter). www.jackheath.com.au
Elise now edits books for children
the sixties in Australia—was named
Books include:
and teenagers at Allen & Unwin in
as a Notable Book in the 2004
children’s authors and his
Third Transmission (august, 2009),
Melbourne. She is the recent winner,
CBCA Awards. Michael recently
Darkness, was published by UQP and
books are published in over
Remote Control (2007)
with author Kim Kane, of the FAW
edited two senior anthologies for
went on to win the WA Premier’s
20 countries. They include Two
Barbara Ramsden National Award for
Award for Young Adult Literature.
Weeks with the Queen, Misery
Lia hiLLs
the Australian Association for the
Excellence in Editing.
Teaching of English (AATE);
His speculative fiction from the The
Guts, Toad Rage, Boy Overboard,
Lia Hills is a poet, translator
Sticky Beak, Adults Only, Bumface,
both feature popular YA Australian
KoN KaRaPaNaGiotiDis
Darklands Trilogy was shortlisted
and novelist whose work has
Girl Underground, Once, Aristotle’s
writers—Hunger (CBCA Notable
and awarded in the Aurealis Awards,
been published, performed and
Kon Karapanagiotidis is the founder
and his Young Adult Fiction novel
Nostril and Then. His new book
Book 2004) and The Girl who
Grace will be published in
translated internationally. In 2009
and coordinator of the Asylum
Fireshadow was an Honour Book in
aRchiE
August 2009.
Lia translated Marie Darrieussecq’s
Seeker Resource Centre, Australia’s
the 2004 CBCA Book of the Year
aRchiE FusiLLo
Awards. At the end of 2005 he
www.morrisgleitzman.com
novel Tom is Dead from the French,
largest asylum seeker aid, health
travelled to Antarctica to research his
Books include: Grace (august,
released her debut novel The
and advocacy organisation. He
Archimede Fusillo was born in
has worked with marginalised
novel Into White Silence which was
2009), Then (2008)
Beginner’s Guide to Living and
Melbourne to Italian immigrants.
communities including the homeless,
shortlisted in the 2009 CBCA awards.
published an award-winning poetry
He has worked as a features writer
aNDy GRiFFiths
survivors of sexual abuse and asylum
www.anthonyeaton.com
for two international magazines,
collection, The Possibility of Flight.
seekers for the past 14 years as a
Books include: Into White Silence
and many of his short stories have
Andy Griffiths is the award-
Born in New Zealand, Lia lives in
social worker, lawyer and educator.
(2008), Nathan Nuttboard:
been published in several leading
winning author of the Just series,
the hills outside Melbourne with her
Kon has a strong commitment to
Upstaged (2008)
magazines and journals. He has
The Bad Book, and the Bum trilogy.
husband and two young sons. She is
human rights and social justice and
won the Alan Marshall Award and
He has also published a non-
currently working on her next novel.
ELizabEth FENshaM
is currently focusing his energies on
the Mary Grant Bruce Award for
fiction book, Fast Food and No Play
Books include: The Beginner’s
trying to end Australia’s inhuman
Children’s Literature. Bruises, his
Elizabeth Fensham is an Australian
Make Jack a Fat Boy. Andy grew up
Guide To Living (2009)
most recent novel, was a 2005
H-K refugee policies.
writer and school teacher.
in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs,
CBCA Notable Book.
siMMoNE hoWELL
Her first novel, Helicopter Man,
studied Arts at Monash University
DaNNy Katz
Books include:
won the CBCA Book of the Year
Last Of The Braves
(2009), Bruises (2004)
and was an English teacher in
Simmone Howell is an award-
for Younger Readers, 2006. Miss
Danny Katz is a newspaper
the late 80s. A few years later he
winning short-story writer and
McAllister’s Ghost achieved a CBCA
columnist for The Age, the Sydney
RaiMoND Gaita
became a full time writer. His first
screenwriter. Her short film Pity
Notable Award (2009). Her third
Morning Herald and The West
farcical collection of vignettes
24 won an AWGIE award and has
novel, Goodbye Jamie Boyd, which
Raimond Gaita was born in
Australian. He also writes The
deals with the sensitive issue of
starring the indefatigable duo, Just
screened at film festivals such as
Germany in 1946 and is Professor
Little Lunch books. Danny lives in
a teenager’s schizophrenia, was
Tricking, was published in 1997.
the London Australian Film Festival
Melbourne with his wife and two
of Moral Philosophy at King’s
shortlisted for the Bologna Book
www.andygriffiths.com.au
and Los Angeles Shorts Fest. Her
kids. He enjoys eating, going to
College, University of London, as
Fair’s White Raven Award (2009).
Books include: Robot Riot!
first novel Notes from the Teenage
movies and picking his toenails
well as Foundation Professor of
Books include: Goodbye Jamie
Philosophy at Australian Catholic
(september, 2009), Just Macbeth
Underground, won the Victorian
while he watches TV.
Boyd (2008), Miss McAllister’s
University. Gaita’s Romulus,
(July, 2009)
Premier’s Literary Award for Young
Books include: The Little Lunch Games
Ghost (2008)
My Father won the Victorian
Adult Fiction in 2007, and the
(2008), M.O.T.H.E.R. (2006)
16
17
Melbourne Writers Festival
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
Schools Program 2009
AUTHOR
BIOS
chRissiE KEiGhERy
songwriters in the country. As
over three minutes on stage. When
have been hugely successful, picking
JohN LoNG
well as issuing an enduring body
he’s not on stage he’s lifting very
up a Notable Book for the CBCA
Chrissie Keighery is the author of
of work with his own bands, Kelly
heavy objects and punching people.
Awards in 2006 and shortlisted
John Long is the author of numerous
many successful books for children
has written film scores (Lantana
This doesn’t always happen at the
for the Western Australian and
books for children including The
including her stories in the best-
and the Cannes 2006 highlight,
same time, but sometimes it does.
Queensland Literary Awards. Julia
Big Picture Book, The Big Picture
selling Go Girl! series. Outside In
Jindabyne), and produced albums
Find him as Crazy Elf on Facebook.
loves Jack Russells, open-minded
Book of Environments and his latest
is this former high-school English
for and written songs with some of
people and Facebook.
The Big Picture Book of Human
teacher’s debut YA novel. Outside
MaRGo LaNaGaN
www.julialawrinson.com.au
Civilization. John Long began
In explores friendships, divorce,
Australia and New Zealand’s finest
Books include: The Push (2008),
collecting fossils when he was seven
body image and growing up in
artists. His most recent albums
Margo Lanagan is an acclaimed
and he found his first dinosaur bones
a deft, lyrical and moving way.
have included the Bluegrass inspired
writer of novels and short stories,
Bye, Beautiful (2006)
near Inverloch, Victoria, when he was
The cool group at school is not as
Foggy Highway, Ways and Means,
and her three collections of short
GEoFF LEMoN
a university student. Since then he
luminous as it seems. Sure they
K - L Stolen Apples and Songs From The stories have been rapturously
has travelled around the world on
appear to have it all, but there are
South Volume 1 and Volume 2.
reviewed around the world. Her
Geoff Lemon is Poetry Editor of
fossil expeditions. John is Head of
problems lurking just below the
www.paulkelly.com.au
second collection, Black Juice, was
harvest magazine, was the inaugural
Sciences at Museum Victoria.
surface. And then there’s someone
Books include: Don’t Start Me
a Michael L. Printz Honor Book, and
Poetry Editor of Voiceworks,
else. She’s not part of the group.
www.johnlong.com
Talking: Lyrics 1984–2004 (1999)
won two World Fantasy Awards,
convenes Melbourne’s monthly
The others have no idea she’s
as well as the 2004 Victorian
Books include: The Big Picture Book
Wordplay readings, and heads up
there. But she knows that there are
JoEy KuRtschENKo
Premier’s Award for Young
of Human Civilisation (august,
the associated Wordplay Collective.
cracks. She watches them from the
Adult Fiction. Red Spikes was a
2009), The Big Picture Book of
A six-time poetry slam winner, his
inside out. From the outside in.
Joey Kurtschenko is a comedian
Publisher’s Weekly Best Book of
Environments (2008)
and spoken word performer who
robust and entertaining performance
the Year and a Horn Book Fanfare
PauL KELLy
has performed both nationally and
style has seen him play solo shows and
MELiNa MaRchEtta
title, and was shortlisted for the
internationally. He runs the poetry
festivals across Australia, and support
Commonwealth Writer’s Prize.
From very early on in his career,
Melina Marchetta lives in Sydney
event ‘Babble Slam!’ which involves
musicians like TZU, True Live, and Paris
Paul Kelly has been recognised as
www.amongamidwhile.blogspot.com
poets getting abused by audiences
Wells in sold-out rock venues. His book
and writes full time. Her first novel,
Books include: Tender Morsels
one of the most significant singer/
and attacked by ninjas if they go
Sunblind is a collection of poems and
Looking for Alibrandi, was released
(2008), Red Spikes (2006)
short fiction published in late 2008.
in 1992 and has been published in
JustiNE LaRbaLEstiER
Books include: Sunblind (2008)
14 countries, including 11 translated
editions, and won the CBCA Book
Justine is the author of the Magic
of the Year Award (Older Readers).
or Madness trilogy, which won
Dubbed “the most stolen library
the 2007 Andre Norton Award and
book”, the popular novel was
was shortlisted for the 2006 Ethel
followed by her film adaptation of
Turner Award. She is married to YA
the same title released in 2000. Her
author Scott Westerfeld and they
L-M second novel, Saving Francesca was
divide their time between Sydney and
followed by On the Jellicoe Road in
New York City. She wishes she had a
2006, both published in more than
clothes-shopping fairy instead of the
six countries, with Saving Francesca
procrastination fairy she battles with
translated into four languages.
almost every day. Her most recent
novel is How to Ditch Your Fairy
www.melinamarchetta.com.au
and her forthcoming novel Liar will be
Books include: Finnikin of the Rock
published by Allen & Unwin in October.
(2008), Looking for Alibrandi (1992)
www.justinelarbalestier.com
aNDREW McDoNaLD
Books include: Liar (october, 2009),
Metlink’s revamped education resource ‘get on board’
How To Ditch Your Fairy (2009)
Andrew McDonald drew upon
his childhood experiences when
teaches young people how to travel safely and
JuLia LaWRiNsoN
writing his debut novel The
Greatest Blogger in the World. An
independently by train, tram and bus.
Julia Lawrinson has worked as
a supermarket checkout girl, a
avid media junkie himself, Andrew
chambermaid, roadhouse attendant
also drew inspiration for the ‘digital’
and a weighbridge operator. Her
inclusions in this story from the
The ‘get on board’ CD-ROM is available to Victorian secondary schools
first novel, Obsession, won the 2001
proliferation of online media and
WA Premier’s Prize for Young Adult
the number of social networking
for free. Call 9619 5241 or visit metlinkmelbourne.com.au
Fiction. Julia’s most recent works
and blogging sites used by kids.
18
19
Melbourne Writers Festival
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
Schools Program 2009
AUTHOR
BIOS
His work has previously been
story of three teenagers who
Adult and Children’s Writing for
MaRia PaLLotta- chiaRoLLi
published in Voiceworks magazine
uncover a plot to wipe out the
The Billionaire’s Curse, a ripping
and Cardigan Press’s
entire human race—everyone, that
adventure novel which grew out of
Dr Maria Pallotta-Chiarolli writes and
Allnighter
is, except the residents of Phoenix,
stories he made up for his children
researches on social justice, diversity
anthology (and on the plaster of
a small corporate town cut off from
at bedtime—tales of kids out and
and equity issues in education and
his uncle’s broken leg).
about getting up to mischief,
health. Her publications include:
www.andrewmcdonald.net.au
the rest of the world. Today Chris
tackling puzzles and solving crimes.
Someone You Know, Girls Talk and
Books include:
remains a certified sci-fi junkie
The Greatest
www.richardnewsome.com
Tapestry. Tapestry was short-listed
and counts Lost among his top
Blogger in the World (July, 2009)
Books include: Billionaire’s Curse
for the NSW Premier’s Award in the
favourite TV shows.
(august, 2009)
Ethnic Affairs Commission category
Mischa MERz
www.chrismorphew.blogspot.com
and in the CBCA Non-Fiction Award.
Books include: Arrival (June, 2009)
MaNDy oRD
Her latest publication is her first
Mischa Merz is the author of
young adult novel, Love You Two
Bruising – A boxer’s story, and is
KiRsty MuRRay
Mandy Ord is a Melbourne-based
O-P (Random House) which explores
a journalist and author of both
cartoonist and illustrator who has
Kirsty Murray was born in
cultural, sexual and family diversity.
fiction and literary non-fiction.
Melbourne, the middle child in a
Her work has appeared in literary
family of seven kids. Kirsty’s novels
magazines including Overland,
have won and been short-listed
Meanjin, Normal Service Will
for numerous awards including
Resume, Allnighter, HQ, RePublica,
M-n
self-published her own comic books
Books include: Love You Two (2007),
as well as contributed to a variety
So, What’s a Boy? (2002)
of comic anthologies and literary
journals. Her work has appeared
bRucE PascoE
in The Age, Meanjin, Australian
the WA Premier’s Award and the
Bruce Pascoe has been a deck
Rationalist, Voiceworks, Tango
Nocturnal Submissions and
NSW Premier’s History Award. She
hand, a barman, farmer and teacher.
and Going Down Swinging.
Torpedo. She has also written
has been a Creative Fellow of
He also edited Australian Short
Focusing on autobiographical
for newspapers on a wide range
the State Library of Victoria and
Stories magazine for 16 years; is the
storytelling Mandy is working on
an Asialink Literature Resident
winner Australian Literature Award
of subjects including art, sport,
a book of short stories using her
in South India. She lives in
(1999) and the Radio National
literature and travel. She has been
protagonist ‘the one eyed girl’.
Melbourne with her husband and
Short Story Competition (1998).
writing about boxing and her own
www.mandyord.blogspot.com
a drifting tribe of young people.
Bruce has Kulin heritage and is
experiences in the sport since she
Books include: Rooftops (2008)
Her latest novel is Vulture’s Gate.
a board member of Aboriginal
started competing in 1998. In 2001
www.kirstymurray.com
she won the national amateur
chiNa MiÉviLLE
Books include: Vulture’s Gate
boxing championship.
China Miéville lives and works
(2009), The Secret Life Of Maeve
www.mischamerz.com
in London. He has twice won
Lee Kwong (2006)
Books include: Bruising (2000)
Fed Square -
fedsquare.com
the prestigious Arthur C. Clarke
JoaNNa MuRRay-sMith
DaviD MEtzENthEN
Award, and is twice winner of
Melbourne’s biggest classroom!
feded.com.au
the British Fantasy Award. He
Joanna Murray-Smith has written
David Metzenthen is a Melbourne-
is also the author of the highly
fourteen plays and three novels,
based writer creating works of
acclaimed young adult novel,
as well as several screenplays.
Australian fiction for readers of
Un Lun Dun. As well as writing
She won the Victorian Premier’s
fantastic fiction, belonging to the
all ages. Striving for authenticity,
Literary Award for Honour in 1996;
loose group of writers dubbed
David seeks to involve his readers
and again in 2003 for Rapture.
New Weird, China is a member
at every level, and to deliver an
In 2004 she won the Fringe First
of the British Socialist Workers
accessible reading experience
Party, and in 2001 he stood
Award at the Edinburgh Fringe
that is genuinely felt. Over a career
for Parliament for the Socialist
Festival for Bombshells. Joanna
spanning twenty years, David
Alliance in North Kensington,
lives in Melbourne with her family.
Plays include:
has won numerous Australian
winning approximately 500 votes.
www.chinamieville.co.uk
Bombshells (2004), Honour (1995)
FedEd!ustralian History, Civics e? ts
Premier’s Awards for his work,
Books include: City and the City
Interested in exploring A
onic living learning plac
ustralia.
and has enjoyed a number of
RichaRD NEWsoME
(2009), Un Lun Dun (2008)
short-listings and Honour Book
or Citizenship in an ic and students visiting Federation Square and complemen
through the Australian Centre for the Moving Image
otter Centre: NGV A
awards from the CBCA. His work
chRis MoRPhEW
Richard Newsome is a former
has also been published and
communications director for a large
FedEd! has resources for teachers
Chris’ debut novel,
recognised internationally.
Arrival, is the
company who dropped out of the
other onsite educational opportunities
ustralian Racing Museum and the Ian P
ed Ed tour
first title in a six book series, The
Books include:
rat race to write his first novel and
Black Water (2007),
(ACMI), Champions - Ats on a one hour F
Phoenix Files, launching in June
be a stay-at-home Dad. Richard
Boys of Blood and Bone (2003)
2009. This thriller tells the gripping
won the 2008 Text Prize for Young
Book your studen eaching manuals tors to
For further information, contact:
Access VELS linked t
Cameron Stevens
20
Collaborate with FedEd! skilled educa
cameron.stevens@fedsquare.com
customise your experience
or 9655 1910
Melbourne Writers Festival
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
Schools Program 2009
AUTHOR
BIOS
Corporation for Languages. He
has performed spoken word many
has prepared a dictionary of the
times as a feature or guest at many
Wathaurong language of south-
venues and festivals in Australia
western Victoria and is a member
and overseas. She most recently
of Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-
has completed a tour of Canada
operative.
P-T
toNy thoMPsoN
Awards. Gabrielle’s latest novel, A
with illustrations by Keith Thompson
Ghost in My Suitcase was
will be released in Australia.
Tony Thompson is an old
released in February.
www.scottwesterfeld.com
friend of William Shakespeare
www.gabriellewang.com
Books include: Leviathan Trilogy
and possibly shared a flat
Books include: A Ghost In My
Book 1 (september, 2009),
featuring at the Festival Voix
with him in a previous life. When
Suitcase (2009), The Hidden
Specials (2006)
Books include: Bloke (august,
d’Amériques in Montreal.
he is not writing the ultimate
Monastery (2006)
2009), Convincing Ground (2007)
unauthorised celebrity biography,
chRis WhEat
www.aliciasometimes.com
Books include:
Tony is an English and Literature
Soundtrack (2009),
scott WEstERFELD
aLicE PuNG
Chris Wheat takes an active
Kissing the Curve (2003)
teacher. His writing has appeared in
interest in politics and education
Alice Pung is a writer and lawyer
The Age and The Australian.
Scott Westerfeld spends his
and believes everyone has to
whose work has appeared in The
shauN taN
Books include: Shakespeare:
summers in Sydney and spends
do something to help save the
Age, Good Weekend, the Monthly
The Most Famous Man in London
his other summers in New York.
At school Shaun Tan became known
planet. He has lived a life largely
and Meanjin. Her first book,
(2009)
He has been a musician, software
as the ‘good drawer’ which partly
without trauma, although he has
game designer and ghost-writer,
Unpolished Gem, has become a
compensated for always being the
uRthboy
been attacked by a lemur, three
but writing under his own name
bestseller. It was shortlisted for
shortest kid in class. Shaun began
German shepherds and a tribe
turned out to be the most fun. His
the Victorian Premier’s Literary
drawing and painting images for
Urthboy is a hip hop artist with
of monkeys; been twice beaten
novels have been named New York
Awards, the NSW Premier’s
science fiction and horror stories in
three solo albums, and four as
up by gangs; had a meat pie
Times Notable Books of the Year,
Literary Awards and The Age
small-press magazines as a
part of The Herd. He’s charted in
thrown at him by a stranger; and
made the Times’ Essential Summer
Book of the Year Award, as
teenager, and has since received
the ARIA top ten, won multiple
has slept in an igloo — not all on
Reading List, and awarded the Philip
well as many others. Most recently,
awards and his 2007 solo release
the same day. He has published
numerous awards for his picture
K Dick Special Citation. He has two
Alice has edited the anthology
The Signal was hailed as ‘a classic’
five novels for young adults:
books, including the CBCA Picture
series’ Uglies and Midnighters which
Growing Up Asian in Australia,
by Rolling Stone, and included the
Two-Stroke Shane, Loose Lips, My
Book of the Year Award for The
won the Aurealis award for Best
which was shortlisted for the
single ‘We Get Around’ (which
Excellent Lives and Grinders, and
Rabbits with John Marsden, and
2008 State Library of Victoria
came in at #25 in Triple J’s Hottest
Young Adult Fantasy. In October
his latest is Screw Loose.
with Gary Crew, Memorial (a CBCA
Summer Read program.
100). In addition to solo material,
2009, The Leviathan Trilogy Book 1,
Books include: Screw Loose
Honour Book) and The Viewer
www.alicepung.com
Urthboy is one of the main lyricists
(2008), Grinders (2001)
(winner of the Crichton Award for
Books include:
of The Herd, who have won AIR
Growing Up Asian
GaRy siMMoNs
illustration).
Awards; landed in the top 10 of the
in Australia (ed., 2008), Unpolished
www.shauntan.net
Gary Simmons, until recently,
national charts; been nominated for
Gem (2006)
Books include: Tales from
was an education programmer
an ARIA award (Best Urban 2008);
haNNiE RaysoN
Outer Suburbia (2008), The
at The Australian Centre for the
J Awards and an AMP award.
Arrival (2006)
Moving Image. In this role he was
www.urthboy.com
Hannie Rayson’s plays have been
responsible for developing and
PENNy taNGEy
CDs include: Summerland (2008),
performed extensively around
delivering both screen-based
The Signal (2007)
Australia and overseas, garnering
Penny Tangey started performing
a string of awards including an
lecture and workshop programs for
stand up when she won the
GabRiELLE WaNG
AWGIE, a NSW Premier’s Literary
students from primary to tertiary
Victorian final of Triple J’s Raw
Award, The Age Performing Arts
levels and professional development
Gabrielle Wang is an author and
Comedy Competition in 2001. In
Award, the Green Room Award
for English, Literature and Media
illustrator born in Melbourne of
2004 Penny appeared on Stand-up!
for Best Play, and Hotel Sorrento
teacher. He is currently speaking
Chinese heritage. Her stories are
on ABC TV. Penny was a 2006
won two Australian Film Institute
and writing on film as a consultant
a blend of Chinese and Western
recipient of a Brian Macarthy
Awards, including Best Screenplay.
in schools, universities, subject
culture with a touch of fantasy.
Her television scripts include Sloth
associations and arts agencies.
Memorial Award (Moosehead)
Gabrielle’s novel The Garden of
(ABC, Seven Deadly Sins) and
for her show Kathy Smith Goes
Empress Cassia, won the 2002
she co-wrote two episodes of the
aLicia soMEtiMEs
to Maths Camp. Her debut
Aurealis Award, was shortlisted for
T-W
award-winning series Sea Change
book, Loving Richard Feynman
the Queensland Premier’s Literary
Alicia Sometimes is a writer, poet,
(ABC/Artists Services). Hannie is
(published by UQP in August
Awards and was a CBCA Notable
broadcaster and musician. She
currently writing a feature film The
2009) is a funny and moving
Book. The Pearl of Tiger Bay was
was one of the editors of Going
Glass Soldier.
novel about fitting in and growing
shortlisted for the 2004 Aurealis
Down Swinging for seven years,
Plays include: Inheritance (2003),
up.
Award and The Lion Drummer
has been published widely in many
Hotel Sorrento (1990)
Books include: Loving Richard
was named a Notable Book in
local and international journals and
Feynman (august, 2009)
this year’s CBCA Book of the Year
22
23
Melbourne Writers Festival
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
Schools Program 2009
MAP
FAQS
Bookings: (03) 9999 1199
Venues
Photo permissions
All events take place in the following venues
The Melbourne Writers Festival will be employing
across the Federation Square precinct:
the services of a professional photographer to
• the BMW Edge Theatre;
record events throughout the festival. These
• ACMI Cinemas,
photos are for archival and marketing purposes
Australian Centre for the Moving Image;
and purchase of a ticket grants implied permission
• the Festival Club, ACMI; and
to use the photos taken for these purposes.
• ArtPlay, at Birrarung Marr.
Enquiries
Ticket information
For more information please contact the festival
Tickets are $6 per student, per session. One
office on (03) 9645 9244 or steve@mwf.com.au.
complimentary ticket is provided to teachers
Please post form to:
with each group of up to 10 children. (Additional
The Melbourne Writers Festival,
teachers are required to purchase additional
117 Sturt St, Southbank VIC 3006.
tickets.)
Fax: (03) 9645 9344 – fax bookings must include
No bookings are confirmed until payment is
credit card details.
received by the MWF. Please use the booking
form supplied for all bookings.
Booking Conditions
Wherever possible tickets will be emailed to
Bookings will only be processed on receipt of full
purchasers for printing at home or work. Each
payment. Bookings can only be accepted online,
ticket has an individual bar-code which is scanned
by phone or fax, and a booking fee will apply
at the venue. If emailing and printing at home or
to online transactions. There are no refunds or
work is not an option, tickets will be kept at the
exchanges once bookings are processed. Your
box-office and made available for collection on
tickets and a confirmation of your booking will
the day of the event. All cheques must be made out
be emailed to the email address on the Booking
to the ‘Melbourne Writers Festival’.
Form – please ensure that you regularly check this
email address.
School bags
Bookings & Reservation Policy
For safety and convenience the MWF suggests
that students do not bring their school bags with
Tickets can be reserved for up to 14 days without
them to the festival.
payment. Full payment for all tickets reserved
must be received within 14 days of initial booking.
Author signings
Failure to finalise payment within 14 days will
Readings Books, Music & Film, the official festival
result in the automatic cancellation of your
bookshop, will have titles by participating authors
booking. Once a booking has been cancelled,
for sale during the festival. Authors will be
tickets will be released to the public and we
available to sign copies of their work either in the
cannot guarantee their subsequent availability.
festival bookshop, or directly after their sessions.
24
25
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools Program 2009
EVEnTS GUIDE
MELBOURnE WRITERS FESTIVAL
SCHOOLS PROGRAM BOOKInG FORM & TAX InVOICE 2009 Date: / /
bMW Edge
acMi 2
acMi 1
Festival club
artPlay
MONDAY 24TH AUGUST
MWF ABN 29 367 097 058
10am–10.45am
Laughter is the Best
Truth, History, Fiction
Thrills & Spills with
Philosophy & Me with
The Magic in History
(Please note that the MWF does not charge GST on tickets, as it is a charitable institution)
Medicine with Morris
with Julia Lawrinson
Jack Heath (LS) 2431
Lia Hills (US) 2461
with Gabrielle Wang
Gleitzman (UP/LS) 2411
& Kirsty Murray (LS/
(UP) 2451
Student tickets per session: $6.00 each.
US) 2421
One complimentary ticket provided for 1 teacher per group of up to 10 students. Additional teachers: $6.00 each
11.15am–12noon
John Boyne: in
The Little Fur
Finding Yourself with
Tomorrow, Today with Dinosaurs Aren’t
Conversation
Universe with Isobelle
Kate de Goldi and
Kirsty Murray
Dead with John Long
Event Details
(LS/US) 2412
Carmody
Archie Fusil o
(UP/LS) 2462
(UP) 2452
(UP) 2422
(US) 2432
Event No.
Event Title
No. Paid Tix
No. Comp Tix
12.30pm–1.15pm
Shakespeare’s World
The New World with
Magical characters
In From the Cold with Making Mischief with
with Andy Griffiths and
Scott Westerfeld and
with Justine
Anthony Eaton
Richard Newsome
Tony Thompson
China Miéville
Larbalestier (LS) 2433
(US) 2463
(UP) 2453
(UP/LS) 2413
(LS/US) 2423
5.00pm–6.00pm
Spotlight on Paul Kelly
& his Lyrics (VCE) 2415
6.30pm–7.30pm
Exploring Issues of
Identity & Belonging
with Joanna Murray-
Smith, Alice Pung and
Kon Karapanagiotidis
(VCE) 2416
Total
tickets
tickets
TUESDAY 25TH AUGUST
NB: All tickets are GST exempt.
Total payment due
$
10am–10.45am
Rules of Invention
Morris Gleitzman:
No Worries? with
Fitting In with Randa
Thrillers for
with Isobelle Carmody
in Conversation
Kate de Goldi and
Abdel-Fattah (US)
Beginners with Chris
and Justine Labalastier
(LS) 2521
Chris Wheat (US) 2531
2561
Morphew (UP) 2551
(UP/LS) 2511
Booking Details
Payment Details
11.15am–12noon
What’s Funny? with
Place, in Space with
Tough Love with
How to Make a Book
Dinosaurs Aren’t
Enclosed is my cheque or money order
Andy Griffiths and
Scott Westerfeld and
Elizabeth Fensham
with Chris Wheat and
Dead with John Long
Name/position:
made payable to ‘Melbourne Writers Festival.’
Danny Katz
Anthony Eaton
(US) 2532
Elise Jones
(UP) 2552
(UP/LS) 2512
(LS/US) 2522
(LS/US) 2562
12.30pm–1.15pm
John Boyne: in
How I Became a
Harnessing History
Nerds, Blogging &
Making Mischief with
Credit card option – min $15 (Please circle).
Conversation
Writer with Randa
with Julia Lawrinson
the Art of Cool with
Richard Newsome
school:
Visa
Mastercard
(LS/US) 2513
Abdel-Fattah,
and Tony Thompson
Andrew McDonald
(UP) 2553
Simmone Howell and
(US) 2533
(UP/LS) 2563
Credit card No.
Jack Heath (ALL) 2523
5.00pm–6.00pm
Spotlight on Hannie
Rayson & Inheritance
Mailing address:
(VCE) 2515
6.30pm–7.30pm
The Imaginative
expiry date
cc v
Landscape with Gary
Simmons, Tony Birch,
telephone:
and Anthony Eaton
(VCE) 2516
Fax:
WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST
Name on card
Email:
10am–10.45am
Innocence &
On the Edge of Your
Magical characters
In Shakespeare’s
The Magic in History
Experience with
Seat with Jack Heath
with Justine
Time with Tony
with Gabrielle Wang
signature
John Boyne & Morris
and Chris Morphew
Larbalestier
Thompson
(UP) 2651
Gleitzman (LS/US) 2611
(LS) 2621
(LS/US) 2631
(LS/US) 2661
your tickets and a confirmation of your booking
11.15am–12noon
Isobelle Carmody: in
The Science in Fiction Anthony Eaton: in
A Racy Past with
A Little Lunch with
will be emailed to the email address on the
conversation
with Scott Westerfeld
conversation
Julia Lawrinson (LS/
Danny Katz
booking Form – please ensure that you regularly
(UP/LS) 2612
and Penny Tangey
(UP/LS) 2632
US) 2662
(UP) 2652
(LS/US) 2622
check this email address.
12.30pm–1.15pm
Just Andy with Andy
A Thousand Words
Suburban nightmare
Characters with a
The Quentaris
Griffiths (UP) 2613
with Shaun Tan and
with Simmone Howell
Difference with Kate
Chronicles with Paul
Mandy Ord
and Julia Lawrinson
de Goldi (US) 2663
Collins (UP) 2653
Festival Box Office: (03) 9999 1199
(LS/US) 2623
(US) 2633
Enquiries: (03) 9645 9244 Please post form to: Melbourne Writers Festival, 117 sturt st, southbank vic 3006
5.00pm–6.00pm
Spotlight on Raimond
Gaita & Romulus, My
Fax: (03) 9645 9344 fax bookings must include credit card details
Father (VCE) 2615
Booking Conditions: Bookings will only be processed on receipt of full payment. Bookings can only
be accepted online, by phone or fax. There are no refunds or exchanges once bookings are processed.
6.30pm–7.30pm
Encountering Conflict
with Bruce Pascoe,
see page 25 for the MWF bookings and Reservation Policy.
Mischa Merz and Maria
Pallotta-Chiarolli
Please retain a copy of this form for your own records.
(VCE) 2616
MWF
SCHOOLS
PROGRAM
AUTHORS
2009
