Schools/' Program
SCHOOLS’
PROGRAM 08
SPONSORED BY DEAKIN UNIVERSITY
22-31
AUGUST 2008
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
Each year we welcome more than 8,000 primary and secondary school students to MWF and this program would not be
possible without the wonderful support from the following:
Major Sponsors
Education Partners
Schools Program Partner
Education Supporter
Panel Partners
Schools Programming Committee
Centre for Youth Literature, State Library of Victoria
Christine Andell
Nikki Anderson
Express Media
Pam Macintyre
Anna Ryan-Punch
Koorie Heritage Trust
Mike Shuttleworth
Kerry Smyth
Victorian Association for the Teaching of English (VATE)
Chris Wheat
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
Some of the most popular sessions from last year are back, includ-
ing How I Became A Writer, but we’ve also included some writers
from the general program in this year’s Schools’ Program, including
HELLO veteran investigative journalist and documentary-maker John Pilger.
John was voted fourth – behind Aung San Suu Kyi and Nelson Man-
dela – in a New Statesman survey searching for the 50 heroes of our
Welcome to the 2008 MWF Schools’ Program.
time, and John will talk about how words can change the world. For
We’re very excited about this year’s festival,
students interested in change, this session is a must.
and for a number of good reasons: we have
Our evening sessions have been developed specifically for those
some wonderful literary talent gracing the
studying VCE English and we’ve developed three new sessions
festivals stages and these stages have found
addressing three of the contexts, namely: ‘Exploring Issues of Idenity
a new home.
& Belonging’, ‘Encountering Conflict’ and ‘Whose Reality?’. These
sessions will be chaired by representatives from the Victorian
The big change for 2008 is that the Melbourne Writers Festival has
moved to Federation Square. This is terrific news for schools as it
Association for the Teaching of English (VATE). In addition to these
‘context’ sessions, we also have husband and wife team, writer–
means that the festival is far more accessible. You can easily bring
director Sarah Watt and actor William McInnes discussing Look
your students to Fed Square by train, tram and, if you like, by boat!
Both Ways, and Larissa Behrendt will discuss her very moving book
School buses can also easily drop students off at the Russell Street
Home.
cul-de-sac at the rear of Fed Square.
For all our sessions we’ve given indications of the age-groups for
All events in the Schools’ Program will be held in venues across Fed
each session – but these are guides only and we fully respect your
Square – from the BMW Edge Theatre to the cinemas at the
understanding of your students’ abilities. (Please note that the
Australian Cinema for the Moving Image. We will also be running
sessions held in ArtPlay are designed for upper primary school
a series of events for upper-primary school students at ArtPlay, in
students and will be more interactive than sessions in other venues.)
Birrarung Marr, as well as a wonderful new series of events in the
National Gallery of Victoria: Australia.
Finally, we’re delighted that the Write Across Victoria competition is
back with three story starters from some of our favourite authors –
The Atrium at Fed Square will provide the festival with its
Danny Katz, Margo Lanagan and David Metzenthen. This
hub – hosting the bookshop and book-signings – and al five venues
competition has been designed for all students in years 7–9 and
are easily accessible from this space. The box-office wil be at
please visit the ad in this program for more details, and then
the Flinders Street entrance to the Atrium and a swarm of easily
visit us at <www.mwf.com.au>.
identifiable festival ushers wil show you to your venues. There are
The full festival program is published in The Age on Friday 18 July.
a plethora of cafes and shops where students can buy lunch and
One of the exciting developments in our general program is that
snacks, but there are also plenty of places for them to sit in the sun
we’ve introduced a fabulous new kid-friendly program on each week-
and eat their lunches from home. But enough about the venues, let’s
end day of the festival. This is called ‘WordPlay at ArtPlay’ and it has
talk about the writers!
been especially designed for primary school students. Each day of
The 2008 festival is hosting some wonderful writers – both home
each festival weekend there will be interactive events at ArtPlay from
grown and from around the world – and they are ready to inspire
10am til 4pm with readings and workshops. Some of our best-loved
and entertain your students. Joining us for the Schools’ Program are
authors like Andy Griffiths, Leigh Hobbs, Jackie French and Terry
Robert Muchamore (UK), Emily Rodda (AUS), John Marsden (AUS),
Denton will be appearing on these weekends, and WordPlay has
Joseph Delaney (UK), Rachel Cohn (USA), Robert Drewe (AUS),
been designed so that parents can join in with their children or attend
John Pilger (UK), as well as many more.
other festival events.
Robert Muchamore’s Cherub series is read and loved by every
I’d like to thank everyone for making this program possible –
school boy (and girl?!), while Emily Rodda’s Deltora Quest series
Schools Programming Committee
especially my advisors on the Schools Programming Committee.
has entranced huge numbers of readers for years. UK author Joseph
Christine Andell
Nikki Anderson
Delaney’s Spook Series takes readers into the realm of science-
I hope you all have a wonderful festival experience – please contact
Pam Macintyre
Anna Ryan-Punch
fiction and fantasy, and John Marsden is just about to release his
me if you have any queries or feedback. I look forward to seeing you
Mike Shuttleworth
Kerry Smyth
latest book – an adaptation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
at the festival.
Chris Wheat
Steve Grimwade
Associate Director
1
A an index of participating authors
A Z
an index of participating authors
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
AUTHORS
Alexandra Adornetto
Larissa Behrendt
Alexandra Adornetto lives in
Larissa Behrendt is Professor
Melbourne. Her first book, The
of Law, a practising barrister
Shadow Thief, was published
and Director of Research at the
A
B
when she was just 13. She is
Jumbunna Indigenous House
currently in Year 11 and enjoys
of Learning at the University of
writing and the performing arts.
Technology, Sydney. She is a board member of
the Museum of Contemporary Art, a Director of the
Waleed Aly
Bangarra Dance Theatre and the Chair of National
Waleed Aly was born in 1978. He is a lecturer in
Indigenous Television Ltd. Larissa has written books
politics at Monash University, working primarily
and articles on property law, dispute resolution
within the Global Terrorism Research Centre.
and Aboriginal women’s issues. She is a regular
Previously he worked as a commercial lawyer
columnist in the National Indigenous Times and
and he also has experience in human rights and
won the 2002 David Unaipon Award for her novel
family law. Waleed was a board member of the
Home.
Islamic Council of Victoria for over four years, and
is frequently sought for comment by media outlets
Mark Carthew
across Australia on a broad range of issues relating
Mark Carthew is an award-
to Islam and Western Muslims. He has contributed
winning children’s author and
regularly to The Australian, Australian Financial
play-script editor. His recent titles
Review, Sydney Morning Herald and The Age,
include the hilarious Wicked
C
and he has been commended at both the Walkley
Wizards & Leaping Lizards, Five
awards and the Quill Awards for his commentary.
Little Owls and The Gobbling
Tree. Mark’s books and compilations include the
John Armstrong
internationally released Chatterbox series and The
John Armstrong was born in Glasgow in 1966 and
Blends Books. The award-winning, internationally
is an Associate Professor of Philosophy at the
acclaimed, illustrated play-script series VoiceWorks,
University of Melbourne. John is now Philosopher in
for which he is series editor and contributing author,
Residence at the Melbourne Business School and
has sold over half a million copies worldwide.
is the author of several internationally acclaimed
books including: Conditions of Love; The Secret
Rachel Cohn
Power of Beauty; and Love, Life, Goethe – How to
Rachel Cohn’s latest novel, You Know Where
be happy in an imperfect world.
to Find Me, is her first ‘stand alone’ book (i.e.
not a sequel or collaboration) in a long time.
Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist and Naomi and
Ely’s No Kiss List were both co-authored with
fellow American David Levithan. Rachel’s other
young adult novels include the three-book series
Gingerbread, Shrimp, and Cupcake. Rachel lives in
Manhattan.
5
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
Joseph Delaney
Adam Ford
Joe Delaney is a retired English teacher living in
Adam Ford has written two books of poetry called
Lancashire. He has three children, six grandchildren
From My Head and Not Quite the Man for the
and is the author of The Spooks Apprentice series.
Job, and one novel called Man Bites Dog. He
The fifth book in the series, The Spook’s Mistake,
publishes his own zines and comics and runs
will be published in August 2008. Most of the places
a blog called Monkey Punch Dinosaur <www.
in the Spook’s books are based on real places in
monkeypunchdinosaur.blogspot.com>. He has been
Lancashire. The Spook’s Apprentice is currently
published in HEAT, Going Down Swinging, Meanjin,
being adapted into a feature film by Warner Bros.
pindeldyboz, Conceived on a Tram, Snorkel, hutt
and cordite. He is currently working on a novel
Robert Drewe
written in the NeoPulp style, which is a style that
Robert Drewe was born in
he didn’t invent, but which he did make up the name
Melbourne but grew up on the
for. Adam lives in Central Victoria with his wife, their
West Australian coast. His many
daughter, a cat and five chickens. His website is
Dnovels and stories – including Our <www.labyrinth.net.au/~adamford>.
Sunshine and The Drowner, the
Penguin Classic, The Bodysurfers, and his memoir
Jackie French
The Shark Net – have been widely translated, won
Jackie French is a full-time writer who lives in rural
many prizes, and been adapted for film, television,
New South Wales. Jackie writes fiction and non-
theatre and radio around the world.
fiction for children and adults, and has columns
in the print media. Jackie is regarded as one of
Elizabeth Fensham
Australia’s most popular children’s authors, and her
Elizabeth Fensham is an Australian writer and
books include: Hitler’s Daughter (which won the
English teacher. She was born and grew up in
CBC Younger Readers Award in 2000), and Diary
Sydney and now lives in the outskirts of Melbourne.
of a Wombat (which was named an Honour Book in
Her first novel, Helicopter Man, was published
the CBC Awards, and winner of the 2002 Australian
in 2005 and won the Australian Children’s Book
Booksellers Association Book of the Year). More
Council’s Book of the Year for Younger Readers in
recently, in 2005, To the Moon and Back won the
2006. The novel deals with the sensitive issue of
CBC Eve Pownall Award for Information Books.
schizophrenia. Her latest novel, Miss McAllister’s
Jackie writes for all ages – from picture books to
Ghost, was published in February 2008.
adult fiction – and across all genres – from humour
and history to science fiction.
John Flanagan
John Flanagan’s bestselling Ranger’s
Simmone Howell
Apprentice adventure series originally
Simmone Howell’s YA novel
comprised twenty short stories,
Notes from the Teenage
Fwhich John wrote to encourage his
Underground won the Victorian
H
twelve-year-old son, Michael, to enjoy
Premier’s Literary Award for
reading. The series has come a long way since
Young Adult Fiction and the State
then. Now sold to 20 different territories, the series
Library’s Gold Inky Award in 2007; it has also been
has appeared on the New York Times Bestseller
published in five countries. Her short film Pity24
List and is regularly shortlisted in children’s book
was awarded the 2004 Australian Writers Guild
awards in Australia and overseas. The eighth
award and has screened at the London Australian
book in the series, The Kings of Clonmel, is being
Film Festival and Los Angeles Shorts Fest. Her next
released in November. For more information visit
novel, Everything Beautiful, is about the unlikely
<www.rangersapprentice.com.au>.
romance between a girl on the run and a boy in a
wheelchair. It will be released in November.
6
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
Danny Katz
Canadian-born Danny Katz
emigrated to Australia at a young
age and worked as a car washer,
Ka leather-belt salesman and a
musical composer before stumbling
into stand-up comedy, where he made his name in
the 1990s. Danny is now a columnist for The Age,
Sydney Morning Herald, and West Australian, and
is the Modern Guru in the Good Weekend. He is
also the author of M.O.T.H.E.R, Spit the Dummy,
and the Little Lunch series for children. Danny lives
John Marsden
in Melbourne with his wife and two children.
Writer and educator, John Marsden was first
published in 1987 with So Much To Tell You. A string
Margo Lanagan
of huge hits followed with the Tomorrow series
Margo Lanagan is a highly
and Ellie Chronicles making him an Australian and
acclaimed writer of novels, short
international bestseller. In 2006 John won the Lloyd
stories and poetry. Her books
O’Neill Award for lifelong services to the Australian
L include White Time (2000), Black book industry, and he was also recently nominated
Juice (2006) and Red Spikes
for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award (the world’s
(2006), the last of which was shortlisted for the
largest children’s and youth literature award). John
2007 Commonwealth Writers Prize for Best Book
runs the school ‘Candlebark’ in country Victoria.
(Oceanic and Asia Pacific region). ‘Singing my
Sister Down’ (from Black Juice) won the World
Susie May
Fantasy Award for Best Short Fiction, the Aurealis,
Susie May is an Education Officer at the NGV,
the Golden Aurealis and Ditmar Awards, and was
Melbourne. She has a particular interest in
short-listed for the Nebula and the Hugo Awards.
developing student programs which use art as
inspiration for developing creative writing and
Melina Marchetta
thinking.
Melina Marchetta is a Sydney
writer whose top-selling debut
William McInnes
novel Looking for Alibrandi won
William McInnes is one of Australia’s most popular
Mmany awards, including a CBC stage and screen actors, and with the publication
Book of the Year Award and an
of his memoir A Man’s Got to Have a Hobby and
Australian Multicultural Book
his novel Cricket Kings, he has become a much-
of the Year Award. Released as a major Australian
loved writer too. In 2006 A Man’s Got to Have a
film in 2000, the screenplay won an AFI Award,
Hobby was selected as one of the Books Alive 50
the NSW Premier’s Literary Award and The Film
Great Reads and William was named ‘Australian
Critics Circle of Australia Awards. Her second novel,
Newcomer of the Year’ at the Australian Book
Saving Francesca, enjoyed similar commercial and
Industry Awards. William received critical and public
critical success. Her latest novel, On the Jellicoe
acclaim for his leading role in the film Look Both
Road, was published in 2006 and Melina’s fourth
Ways, written and directed by his wife Sarah Watt.
novel, Finnikin of the Rock, will be published by
His roles in SeaChange and Blue Heelers had
Penguin in October 2008.
already made him a household name. William now
lives in Melbourne with Sarah Watt and their two
children. His third book, That’d Be Right, will be
published in August of this year.
7
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
David Metzenthen
Bruce Pascoe
David Metzenthen creates works of Australian
Lives at Mallacoota. Author of
fiction for young adults and children of al ages.
Convincing Ground, history and
David seeks to involve his readers at every level
twelve fiction titles. Bunurong
P
and to deliver an accessible reading experience
heritage. Winner Australian
that is genuinely felt. David has won numerous
Literature Award 1999. Still plays
Premier’s Awards for his work, and has enjoyed a
footy and cricket. Recently done the hammy.
number of short-listings and Honour Book awards
from the Children’s Book Council of Australia.
Tim Pegler
Boys of Blood and Bone and Black Water are
Tim Pegler has spent a decade in journalism
David Metzenthen’s most current novels for young
working at newspapers including The Age, Herald
adult readers, while his books for younger readers
Sun, the Weekly Times and the Australian. While
include The Rainbirds, The Only Pony and The
reporting on subjects including disability, poverty
Really Really Epic Mini Bike Ride.
and child protection Tim won media awards from the
Tracie Morris
Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission,
Tracie Morris is an interdisciplinary poet who
and the United Nations Association of Australia.
has worked extensively as a sound artist, writer
Currently working as a freelance website editor, Tim
and multimedia performer. Her installations have
is working on his next novel, a ghost story.
been presented at the Whitney Biennial and the
Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning. She holds
John Pilger
an MFA in poetry from Hunter College and a PhD in
John Pilger grew up in Sydney. He has been a war
Performance Studies from New York University.
correspondent, author and film-maker. He is one of
Dr. Morris is the CPCW Fellow in Poetics and Poetic
only two to win British journalism’s highest award
Practice at the University of Pennsylvania
twice, for his work all over the world. He has been
and Associate Professor of Humanities and Media
International Reporter of the Year and winner of the
Studies at Pratt Institute.
United Nations Association Peace Prize and Gold
Medal. For his broadcasting, he has won France’s
Robert Muchamore
Reporter Sans Frontieres, an American Academy
Highly acclaimed UK author, Robert Muchamore,
Award (an Emmy) and a British Academy Award.
was inspired to create the Cherub series by his
His first film, The Quiet Mutiny, made in 1970, re-
nephews’ constant complaints about the lack
vealed the rebellion within the US Army in Vietnam
of interesting books. Using his thirteen years of
that led to its withdrawal. His 1979 documentary,
experience as a private investigator, Robert wrote
Cambodia Year Zero revealed the horrors of the Pol
the Cherub series to get them excited about
Pot regime. He is the author of numerous best-sell-
reading. Robert has sold over a million copies of
ing books, including Heroes and A Secret Country,
this hugely successful series and has numerous
a history of Australia. His latest is Freedom Next
awards under his belt.
Time. In 2003, he received the prestigious Sophie
Prize for ‘thirty years of exposing deception and
Joanna Murray-Smith
improving human rights’.
Joanna Murray-Smith is a Melbourne-based
playwright, screenwriter and novelist. Her plays
include Honour, Rapture, Bombshells, Nightfall,
Redemption, Love Child and Flame. Her most
recent novel Sunnyside was published last year.
8
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
Richard Plunkett
Emily Rodda
Richard Plunkett wrote guidebooks for Lonely
Emily Rodda is one of Australia’s most popular
Planet Publications for eight years, surviving
children’s authors. She is the author of the
destinations such as Bangladesh, Uzbekistan,
outstandingly successful Deltora Quest novels and
Sri Lanka and the Caucasus. His first book as
has won the CBCA’s Book of the Year (Younger
sole author, The Long Patrol – Australia and East
Readers) award a record five times. In 1995 she
Timor’s Wars, is a history book for teenage readers.
received the Dromkeen Medal for services to
It begins with Australian commandos invading
Australian children’s literature. She began writing
East Timor in 1941 and chronicles the Indonesian
as a child and continued that passion as a publisher
invasion, East Timorese resistance, the 1999
and editor before deciding to write children’s books
referendum and East Timor’s ongoing troubles as
full time. Emily’s latest book is The Key to Rondo.
an independent state.
Penni Russon
Alice Pung
Penni Russon is an author, editor, teacher and
Alice Pung is a writer and lawyer whose work has
blogger. Her latest novel The Indigo Girls, is
appeared in The Age, Good Weekend, the Monthly
published by Al en & Unwin in conjunction with
and Meanjin. Her first book, Unpolished Gem, has
Girlfriend Magazine, and has recently been #1
become a national bestseller. It was shortlisted for
on Angus & Robertson’s bestseller list. In a new
the Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards, the NSW
approach, Russon reproduces the first three
Premier’s Literary Awards and The Age Book of the
chapters of The Indigo Girls through a link on her
Year Award, and won the 2007 Newcomer of the
weblog. Her earlier books for young adults include
Year Award in the Australian Book Industry Awards.
the popular fantasy titles Undine, Breathe and Drift.
Most recently, Alice has edited the anthology
Growing Up Asian in Australia.
Diana Sandars
Dr. Diana Sandars teaches in
Sally Rippin
the Screen Studies program
Sally Rippin was born in Darwin,
in the School of Culture and
grew up in South-East Asia, has
Communication at the University of
lived in China and France and
Melbourne, where she co-ordinates
R
S
now lives in Melbourne. As a
courses on the film musical and Australian cinema.
young adult she studied traditional
Diana also lectures at the Australian Centre for the
Chinese painting in Shanghai and Hangzhou.
Moving Image Film in the Text Teacher Seminar
Returning to Australia, Sally began to write and
Program. Diana is the author of Heinemann English
illustrate both picture books and junior novels,
Project Film as Text: Bend it Like Beckham and
influenced by her time in China. She has writ en and
has published chapters on Ally McBeal and Buffy
illustrated several prize-winning children’s books,
the Vampire Slayer, as well as contributing to the
including her latest book, Chenxi and the Foreigner,
academic journals Australian Screen Education,
a love story set around the time of the Tiananmen
Idiom, Metro, Refractory, Screening the Past and
Square protests.
Sensesofcinema.
9
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
write across Victoria
Sarah Watt
Carole Wilkinson
Sarah Watt is an award-
Carole Wilkinson is the award-winning author of
winning filmmaker who has
the best-selling Dragonkeeper Trilogy, which has
been working as a writer,
been published in 14 countries. Dragon Moon, the
Wdirector and producer of third book in the trilogy, and her edited version of
animation for 15 years.
Ned Kelly’s Jerilderie Letter (illustrated by Dean
Sarah debut feature, Look Both Ways, has been
Jones) were both shortlisted for the 2008 CBCA
a critical and popular success. Her acclaimed
Book of the Year Awards. Publication last year of
animation Small Treasures (1995; 15 mins) brought
the sumptuous Dragon Companion: An Enyclopedia
widespread international attention, winning –
(CBCA notable book) is the celebration of Carole’s
amongst many awards – the Baby Lion for Best
passion for dragons. Carole’s latest book is non-
Short Film at the Venice Film Festival that year.
fiction and is about Hatshepsut, the notorious ‘lost’
Local Dive and Living With Happiness followed,
Egyptian female Pharaoh.
both of which screened widely at festivals and
theatrically, winning many international and
Lili Wilkinson
Australian awards. Sarah’s hand-painted animated
Lili Wilkinson is the author of Joan of Arc,
films are distinguished by her comic exploration
Scatterheart and The (not quite) Perfect Boyfriend;
of personal states, set against lush Australian
Lili also edited the Short anthology. She blogs at
landscapes.
<www.liliwilkinson.com> and manages
<www.insideadog.com.au>, a highly acclaimed
website for teenagers about books, as part of her
role at the Centre For Youth Literature (CYL) at the
State Library of Victoria.
10
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write across Victoria
insert write across australia
adversiement
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Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
BMW Edge Theatre
ACMI Cinema 1
10.00 - 10.45am
10.00 - 10.45am
Spotlight on
Ned Kelly:
Y
Robert Muchamore
Myth, Man and Legend
Robert Muchamore (UK) worked as a
Join Carole Wilkinson and Tim Pegler
private investigator for several years
as they talk about how Ned Kelly
before becoming famous for writing
has been interpreted in fact and
his Cherub series of children’s books.
fiction. Carole’s Ned Kelly’s Jerilderie
Join Robert and hear how he became
Letter is a terrific adaptation of Ned’s
a writer, what inspired him to write
infamous letter. In Tim’s Game as
and why he wrote the Cherub series.
Ned the Kelly story echoes through
H
His presentation will be followed by
the life of a seventeen-year-old
a short reading, a Q&A and a book
with autism. Both books are CBCA
signing. 2511 LS
Notable Books for 2008. 2531 LS/US
T
5
11.15 - 12.00pm
11.15 - 12.00pm
Apprenticed to adventure
Myths with a twist
MONDA 2
Join two masters of fantasy and
Do fantasy writers avoid reality, or
science fiction as they talk about
confront it more directly? Are stories
how their characters learn and find
with magic in them just a mat er of
their strengths through different
make-believe and play, or do they say
apprenticeships. Each writer will
serious things? What happens when
discuss how they created dynamic
you allow orcs, ogres and weather-
NGV: Australia
characters and why have they created
workers into your written world?
Student Label Project
the worlds they have. Joseph Delaney
Margo Lanagan is the award-winning
10am–12noon
(UK) writes the bestselling Spooks
author of many books, including Black
Series and has sold the film rights to
Juice, while Penni Russon’s earlier
Do you want your words on the walls
The Spook’s Apprentice to Warner
books for young adults include the
of the National Gallery of Victoria?
Bros. John Flanagan is best known
popular fantasy titles Undine, Breathe
The Student Label Project gives
for the Ranger’s Apprentice series
and Drift. 2532 US
24 students the chance to talk,
which has appeared on the NY Times
think and write about the art in the
bestseller list. 2512 UP/LS
gallery’s Australian collection. Upon
returning to school each student
12.30 - 1.15pm
12.30 - 1.15pm
will write their own alternative label
Emily Rodda
Invisible Cities:
for a chosen piece of art, and two
in conversation
writing about home
students will be selected to have
Emily Rodda is one of Australia’s
These two authors will discuss how
their work displayed next to the piece
most popular children’s authors. She
they made their cities and suburbs
of art. These sessions are open to
is the author of the outstandingly
come alive in their writing and why
all schools but only two groups of
successful Deltora Quest novels and
place is important. Rachel Cohn
students will be able to participate in
has won the CBCA’s Book of the Year
(USA) hails from Manhattan,which
each daily session.
(Younger Readers) award a record
provides the setting for the fast-paced
five times. Emily’s latest book is The
Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist.
For full details please email
Key to Rondo. Join Emily in this lively
Simmone Howell’s equally hip Notes
<steve@mwf.com.au>.
discussion about her books and
From The Teenage Underground won
writing. 2513 UP/LS
a Victorian Premier’s Literary Award
2591 ALL
and the State Library’s Gold Inky
Award in 2007. 2533 US
12
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
ACMI Cinema 2
ArtPlay
VCE Sessions
10.00 - 10.45am
10.00 - 10.45am
5.00 - 6.00pm
Melina Marchetta
ArtPlay with Jackie French:
Venue: BMW Edge Theatre
in conversation
How to speak wombat.
Spotlight on Look
Melina Marchetta’s top-selling debut
Wombats ‘see’ the world by the way it
Both Ways, with
novel Looking for Alibrandi won a
smells – which means they ‘see’
William McInnes
great number of awards and was
(or smell) the past at the same time
& Sarah Watt
adapted and released as a major
they see the present. What can we
Look Both Ways was written and
Australian film in 2000. Melina’s new
learn from our stories of the past?
directed by Sarah Watt and stars
book – Finnikin of the Rock – is due
Hear the truth behind Pharaoh: the
William McInnes in the leading role.
out in October. 2521 US
Boy Who Conquered the Nile, A
Gain a privileged insight into this
Sponsored by the Victorian
Rose for the Anzac Boys, and The
film from its two key players. Sarah
Association for the Teaching
Camel Who Crossed Australia, and
wil discuss why she wrote the film
of English (VATE).
why they matter. (And learn to speak
and William will talk about how he
wombat too.) 2551 UP/LS
interpreted Sarah’s script. Both will
discuss how the film was created
11.15 - 12.00pm
11.15 - 12.00pm
and why it has resonated with so
Culture hopping: growing
ArtPlay with
many people. 2514
up Asian and Australian
David Metzenthen
What’s it like to grow up Asian in
In this session David will help
6.30 - 7.30pm
Australia and Australian in Asia?
students to think and learn about
Venue: ACMI Cinema 2
Join these two writers as they discuss
writing stories based in fictional but
Exploring issues of
their different experiences. Alice
‘real’ worlds. Using his own work as
identity & belonging
Pung’s Unpolished Gem was the
a starting point, David will suggest
This panel will discuss ‘identity
bestselling book at the 2006 MWF,
ideas and ways to think and write. As
and belonging’ from a range of
and Alice has recently edited Growing
a believer in simple story structure for
perspectives, so to better prepare
Up Asian in Australia. Sally Rippin
effective communication, David’s aim
students studying this particular
grew up in South-East Asia, has lived
is to encourage all children to see the
context as part of their VCE
in China and France and now lives
true value and potential of their own
year. Students will hear from
in Melbourne. Sally is the author of
stories. 2552 UP
Joanna Murray-Smith on her play
Chenxi and the Foreigner. 2522 US
Bombshells; from Waleed Aly, a
past spokesperson for the Islamic
Council of Victoria; and from Diana
Sandars, as she talks about
12.30 - 1.15pm
12.30 - 1.15pm
the movie Witness. This session
How writing can
ArtPlay with Mark Carthew
will be chaired by a representative
change the world
Australian children’s author Mark
by the Victorian Association for the
Join John Pilger as he talks about
Carthew’s books and series have sold
Teaching of English (VATE). 2524
how writing can change the world,
over a million copies worldwide.
and how you can too. John has been
Along with sil y jokes, rhymes and
a war correspondent, author and
riddles (from Wicked Wizards &
film-maker, and in 2003, he received
Leaping Lizards, Mark’s latest
LEGEND
the prestigious Sophie Prize for ‘thirty
collaboration with UK cartoonist &
years of exposing deception and
illustrator Mike Spoor), students
UP = Upper Primary
improving human rights’. Nobel Prize
wil enjoy a fun-packed, interactive
LS = Lower Secondary
winner Harold Pinter has said: ‘John
session exploring wordplay, drama
US = Upper Secondary
Pilger unearths, with steely attention
skits and illustrated books. 2553 UP
ALL = All!
to facts, the filthy truth and tel s it as it
2511 = Event code
is.’ 2523 US
13
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
BMW Edge Theatre
ACMI Cinema 1
10.00 - 10.45am
10.00 - 10.45am
Spotlight on
Joseph Delaney
Robert Muchamore
Y
in conversation
Robert Muchamore (UK) worked as a
Join Joseph in this lively discussion
private investigator for several years
about his books and writing. Joseph
before becoming famous for writing
Delaney (UK) is the author of the
his Cherub series of children’s books.
bestselling children’s books, the
Join Robert and hear how he became
Spooks Series, which is Joseph’s
a writer, what inspired him to write
latest journey into the world of fantasy
and why he wrote the Cherub series.
and science fiction. The film rights to
His presentation will be followed by
The Spook’s Apprentice have already
a short reading, a Q&A and a book
been sold to Warner Bros. 2631 LS
signing. 2611 LS
11.15 - 12.00pm
11.15 - 12.00pm
Characters with spine
Bringing the past to life
Learn how to create characters
The books of both David Metzenthen
that spring from the pages with two
and Elizabeth Fensham have mixed
wonderful, strong authors. Rachel
TUESDA 26TH
the past with the present to best tell
Cohn (USA) hails from Manhattan,
their story. Find out how they do this
has written two books for young
and why in this engaging session.
adults with David Levithan, as well as
David’s books include Boys of Blood
NGV: Australia
four on her own. Melina Marchetta’s
& Bone and Stony Heart Country,
Student Label Project
top-selling debut novel Looking for
both of which were shortlisted for the
10am–12noon
Alibrandi won a number of awards
CBCA Book of the Year Award (Older
and was adapted and released as a
Readers). Elizabeth’s first novel,
Do you want your words on the walls
major Australian film in 2000. Melina’s
Helicopter Man, won the CBCA Book
of the National Gallery of Victoria?
new book out – Finnikin of the Rock
of the Year (Younger Readers). Her
The Student Label Project gives
-– is due out in October. 2612 US
latest, Miss McAllister’s Ghost, was
24 students the chance to talk,
published in February. 2632 LS/US
think and write about the art in the
gallery’s Australian collection. Upon
12.30 - 1.15pm
12.30 - 1.15pm
returning to school each student
Emily Rodda
DIY culture: blogging
will write their own alternative label
in conversation
isn’t writing is it?
for a chosen piece of art, and two
Emily Rodda is one of Australia’s
Is blogging changing the face of
students will be selected to have
most popular children’s authors.
culture? How can you blog best?
their work displayed next to the piece
She is the author of the outstandingly
Learn from these two experts from the
of art. These sessions are open to
successful Deltora Quest novels and
blogosphere! Lili Wilkinson manages
all schools but only two groups of
has won the CBCA’s Book of the Year
<insideadog.com.au>, a highly
students will be able to participate in
(Younger Readers) award a record
acclaimed website for teenagers
each daily session.
five times. Emily’s latest book is The
about books,and blogs about books at
Key to Rondo. Join Emily in this lively
<thinkingsofalili.blogspot.com>. Whilst
For full details please email
discussion about her books and
Margo Lanagan blogs about all things
<steve@mwf.com.au>.
writing. 2613 UP/LS
at <amongamidwhile.blogspot.com>.
2633 US
2691 ALL
14
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
ACMI Cinema 2
ArtPlay
VCE Sessions
10.00 - 10.45am
10.00 - 10.45am
6.30 - 7.30pm
How I became a writer?
ArtPlay with Jackie French:
Venue: BMW Edge Theatre
This popular session will explore the
How to speak wombat.
Encountering Conflict
ways in which you can become a
Wombats ‘see’ the world by the way
This panel will discuss
published author. Alice Pung’s first
it smells – which means they ‘see’
‘encountering conflict’ from a
book, Unpolished Gem, was the
(or smell) the past at the same time
range of perspectives so to better
bestselling book at the 2006 MWF;
they see the present. What can we
prepare students studying this
Alexandra Adornet o wrote her first
learn from our stories of the past?
particular context as part of their
novel, the fantasy/adventure The
Hear the truth behind Pharaoh: the
VCE year. Students will hear from
Shadow Thief when she was 13;
Boy Who Conquered the Nile, A Rose
Indigenous author Bruce Pascoe,
and Adam Ford, poet and novelist,
for the Anzac Boys, and The Camel
who will talk on ‘frontier violence’;
was first discovered during the MWF
Who Crossed Australia, and why they
Richard Plunkett, who will talk
Schools’ Program! 2621 ALL
matter. (And learn to speak wombat
about the conflicts experienced by
Sponsored by Express Media.
too.) 2651 UP/LS
the East Timorese, and how he
wrote about them; and from Susie
11.15 - 12.00pm
11.15 - 12.00pm
May (an Education Officer from
John Flanagan
ArtPlay with
the National Gallery of Victoria),
in conversation
Carole Wilkinson
who wil talk about conflict using
John Flanagan began his career in
Join Carole Wilkinson, the author of
examples of art from the NGV’s
advertising before turning to television
The Dragon Companion – an A-Z
collection. This session will be
with the sitcom Hey Dad!. He is best
encyclopedia of dragons. In this
chaired by a representative by
known, however, for the Ranger’s
session Carole will discuss the
the Victorian Association for the
Apprentice series of children’s books.
various species of dragon and how
Teaching of English (VATE)
The first in the series is The Ruins of
they’ve been illustrated in her book;
2624
Gorlan (2004) was quickly followed
Carole will also spark debate on the
by a further six compelling titles, and
past existence of dragons. 2652 UP
the series appeared on the New York
Times bestseller list. Join John in this
lively discussion about his books and
writing. 2622 UP/LS
12.30 - 1.15pm
After Sorry: where to now?
12.30 - 1.15pm
This discussion will look to the future
ArtPlay with Danny Katz
of reconciliation: what happens now
Using stories and characters from the
that the government has said ‘sorry’?
Little Lunch books, Danny Katz will
What can we do as individuals?
inspire kids to dig into their own
Bruce Pascoe is an award-winning
school-yard experiences and create
Indigenous writer, and he will be in
their own funny stories and characters.
discussion with Jason Eades (CEO of
2653 UP
the Koorie Heritage Trust). 2623 US
LEGEND
Sponsored by the Koorie
Heritage Trust.
UP = Upper Primary
LS = Lower Secondary
US = Upper Secondary
ALL = All!
2511 = Event code
15
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
Y
BMW Edge Theatre
ACMI Cinema 1
10.00 - 10.45am
10.00 - 10.45am
Spotlight on
Poetry & performance:
Robert Muchamore
moving people with words
Robert Muchamore (UK) worked as a
Join international guest Tracie Morris
private investigator for several years
(USA) and local wunderkind Adam
before becoming famous for writing
Ford, as they discuss how poetry
his Cherub series of children’s books.
and performance can be the most
Join Robert and hear how he became
direct form of communication. This
a writer, what inspired him to write
panel will include a discussion,
and why he wrote the Cherub series.
performances and Q&A.
His presentation will be followed by
2731 LS/US
a short reading, a Q&A and a book
signing. 2711 LS
11.15 - 12.00pm
11.15 - 12.00pm
Shakespeare,
Rachel Cohn
WEDNESDA
27TH
Enid Blyton and me.
in conversation
John Marsden is one of Australia’s
Rachel Cohn (USA) lives in
most loved authors, and many
Manhattan and writes funny, funky,
thousands of kids (and adults) have
hip YA fiction. Her three-book series
read books in both the Tomorrow
Gingerbread, Shrimp, and Cupcake
NGV: Australia
series and the Ellie Chronicles. In
are on numerous ‘best of’ lists, and
Student Label Project
this session John will discuss his
her collaborations with David Levithan
10am–12noon
writing – how he comes up with
– Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist
his ideas and how he writes his
and Naomi and Ely’s No Kiss List –
Do you want your words on the walls
books – in particular, he will discuss
have further progressed her rise to
of the National Gallery of Victoria?
his latest novel, an adaptation of
fame. Her most recent book is You
The Student Label Project gives
Shakespeare’s Hamlet. 2712 LS/US
Know Where to Find Me. 2732 US
24 students the chance to talk,
Sponsored by the Centre for Youth
think and write about the art in the
Literature, State Library of Victoria.
gallery’s Australian collection. Upon
returning to school each student
12.30 - 1.15pm
12.30 - 1.15pm
will write their own alternative label
Writers who read,
Words of war
for a chosen piece of art, and two
readers who write
Join David Metzenthen and Richard
students will be selected to have
Join John Marsden, Margo Lanagan
Plunkett as they explore different
their work displayed next to the piece
and Lili Wilkinson as they speak
approaches to writing about war.
of art. These sessions are open to
about the books they’ve loved over
David’s Boys of Blood & Bone was
all schools but only two groups of
the years. Each writer will discuss the
shortlisted for a CBCA Book of
students will be able to participate in
books and writers that have helped to
the Year Award (Older Readers).
each daily session.
shape their style, themes and careers
Richard’s The Long Patrol: Australia
as writers. 2713 US
and East Timor’s Wars explores
For full details please email
This project has been assisted by
Australia’s involvement with East
<steve@mwf.com.au>.
the Australian Government through
Timor – from the Second World War
the Australia Council for the Arts,
through the Indonesian invasion
2791 ALL
its arts funding and advisory body.
to their recent declaration of
independence. 2733 LS/US
16
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
ACMI Cinema 2
ArtPlay
VCE Sessions
10.00 - 10.45am
10.00 - 10.45am
5.00 - 6.00pm
Myths with a twist
ArtPlay with Sally Rippin
Venue: BMW Edge Theatre
Do fantasy writers avoid reality, or
Sally will take students through the
Spotlight on
confront it more directly? Are stories
process of creating a picture book
Home & Larissa
with magic in them just a mat er of
from manuscript to publication.
Behrendt
make-believe and play, or do they say
She will also lead a step-by-step
Larissa Behrendt is Professor
serious things? What happens when
illustrating workshop where students
of Law, a practising barrister
you allow orcs, ogres and weather-
will draw characters from one of
and Director of Research at the
workers into your written world? Margo
Sally’s picture books and then create
Jumbunna Indigenous House
Lanagan is the award-winning author
their own.2751 UP
of Learning at the University of
of many books, including Black Juice,
Technology, Sydney. She is also
while Penni Russon’s earlier books
the author of Home, which won
for young adults include the popular
the 2002 David Unaipon Award.
fantasy titles Undine, Breathe and
Behrendt felt impassioned to
Drift. 2721 US
write Home after reading the
heartbreaking oral histories in the
11.15 - 12.00pm
11.15 - 12.00pm
Bringing Them Home report. 2714
John Flanagan
ArtPlay with
in conversation
Elizabeth Fensham
6.30 - 7.30pm
John Flanagan began his career in
Write Alive and Write Tight! This
Venue: ACMI 1
advertising before turning to television
session will give students an insight
Whose Reality?
with the sitcom Hey Dad!. He is best
into some of Elizabeth Fensham’s
This panel will discuss ‘whose
known, however, for the Ranger’s
favourite writing tricks. Explore the
reality?’ from a range of
Apprentice series of children’s books.
source of great ideas. Discover the
perspectives, so to better prepare
The first in the series is The Ruins of
words that bring descriptions alive.
students studying this particular
Gorlan (2004) was quickly followed
Get inspiration from not only famous
context as part of their VCE year.
by a further six compelling titles, and
writers, but also the creations of
Students will hear from Robert
the series appeared on the New York
students your own age. Everyone will
Drewe (author of The Shark
Times bestseller list. Join John in this
walk away with ideas for their next
Net), and from philospher John
lively discussion about his books and
great work.2752 US/LS
Armstrong, Associate Professor
writing. 2722 UP
in the Philosophy Department
of Melbourne University. This
session will be chaired by a
12.30 - 1.15pm
12.30 - 1.15pm
representative by the Victorian
Joseph Delaney
ArtPlay with Danny Katz
Association for the Teaching of
in conversation
Using stories and characters from
English (VATE) 2734
Join Joseph in this lively discussion
the Little Lunch books, Danny Katz
about his books and writing. Joseph
will inspire kids to dig into their
Delaney (UK) is the author of the
own school-yard experiences and
bestselling children’s books, the
create their own funny stories and
Spooks Series, which is Joseph’s
characters. 2753 UP
LEGEND
latest journey into the world of fantasy
and science fiction. The film rights to
UP = Upper Primary
LS = Lower Secondary
The Spook’s Apprentice have already
US = Upper Secondary
been sold to Warner Bros. 2723 LS
ALL = All!
2511 = Event code
17
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
MAP
to
Yarra River
ArtPlay
Princes
, Birrarung Marr
Bridge
River terrace
pedestrian access
Carpark
BMW
Edge
Festival
Box office
Swanston Street
Plaza
Ian Potter
& Info
desk
Centre
toilets
NGV
Festival
coach loading zone
Hub &
Flinders
Atrium
Street
ACMI
Station
Readings
Bookshop
cinemas 1 + 2
tram stops
Festival
Box office
Toilets
1, 3, 5, 6, 8
Russell
& Info
ATM
16, 22, 64
Street
desk
Visitors
67, 72
extension
centre
coach loading zone
tram stops
Flinders Street
St Pauls
48, 75, 70, city circle
Cathedral
18
Melbourne Writers Festival
Schools’ Program 2008
FAQs
Bookings: 1300 722 211
Venues
Author signings
All events take place in the following venues across
Readings Books & Music, the official festival
the Federation Square precinct:
bookshop, will have titles by participating authors for
sale during the festival. Authors will be available to
• the BMW Edge Theatre;
sign copies of their work either in the festival
• ACMI Cinemas, Australian Centre for the Moving
bookshop, or directly after their sessions.
Image;
Photo permissions
• the Ian Potter Centre, NGV Australia; and
The Melbourne Writers Festival will be employing
• ArtPlay, at Birrarung Marr.
the services of a professional photographer to
record events throughout the festival. These photos
are for archival and marketing purposes and
Ticket information
purchase of a ticket grants implied permission to
Tickets are $6 per student, per session (including
use the photos taken for these purposes.
booking fee). One complimentary ticket is provided
to teachers with each group of up to 10 children.
Enquiries
(Additional teachers are required to purchase
For more information please contact the festival
additional tickets.)
office on (03) 9645 9244 or <steve@mwf.com.au>.
No bookings are confirmed until payment is received
by the MWF. Please use the booking form supplied
Please post form to:
for all bookings.
The Melbourne Writers Festival, 117 Sturt St,
Wherever possible tickets will be emailed to
Southbank VIC 3006.
purchasers for printing at home or work. Each ticket
Fax: (03) 9645 9344 – fax bookings must include
has an individual bar-code which is scanned at the
credit card details.
venue. If emailing and printing at home or work is
not an option, tickets will be kept at the box-office
Booking Conditions
and made available for collection on the day of the
Bookings will only be processed on receipt of full
event.
payment. Bookings can only be accepted online, by
phone or fax. There are no refunds or exchanges
All cheques must be made out to the ‘Melbourne
once bookings are processed. Your tickets and a
Writers Festival’.
confirmation of your booking will be emailed to the
email address on the Booking Form – please ensure
School bags
that you regularly check this email address.
For safety and convenience the MWF suggests that
students do not bring their school bags with them to
the festival.
19
Event guide
> Please note: The NGV: Label Project runs everyday from 10.00am - 12.00pm (2791, 2691, 2691)
MONDAY 25TH AUGUST
BMW Edge
ACMI 1
ACMI 2
ARTPLAY
10.00am -
Spotlight on
Ned Kelly: Myth, Man and
Melina Marchetta
ArtPlay with
10.45am
Robert Muchamore 2511
Legend 2531
in conversation 2521
Jackie French 2551
11.15am -
Apprenticed to adventure
Myths with a twist
Culture hopping: growing
ArtPlay with David
12.00pm
2512
2532
up Asian & Australian
Metzenthen 2552
2522
12.30pm -
Emily Rodda
Invisible Cities:
How writing can change
ArtPlay with
1.15pm
in conversation 2513
writing about home 2533
the world. 2523
Mark Carthew 2553
5.00pm -
Spotlight on Look Both
6.00pm
Ways. 2514
6.30pm -
Exploring issue of
7.30pm
identity & belonging 2524
TUESDAY 26TH AUGUST
BMW Edge
ACMI 1
ACMI 2
ARTPLAY
10.00am -
Spotlight on
Joseph Delaney:
How I became a writer?
ArtPlay with
10.45am
Robert Muchamore 2611
in conversation 2631
2621
Jackie French 2651
11.15am -
Characters with spine
Bringing the past to life
John Flanagan
ArtPlay with Carole Wilkinson
12.00pm
2612
2632
in conversation 2622
2652
12.30pm -
Emily Rodda
DIY culture: blogging
After Sorry: where to
ArtPlay with Danny Katz
1.15pm
in conversation 2613
isn’t writing is it? 2633
now? 2623
2653
6.30pm -
Encountering conflict
7.30pm
2624
WEDNESDAY 27TH AUGUST
BWM Edge
ACMI 1
ACMI 2
ARTPLAY
10.00am -
Spotlight on Robert
Poetry & performance:
Myths with a twist
ArtPlay with Sally Rippin
10.45am
Muchamore 2711
moving people with words
2721
2751
2731
11.15am -
Shakespere, Enid Blyton
Rachel Cohn
John Flanagan
ArtPlay with Elizabeth
12.00pm
and me. 2712
in conversation 2732
in conversation 2722
Fensham 2752
12.30pm -
Writers who read, readers
Words of war
Joseph Delaney
ArtPlay with Danny Katz
1.15pm
who write 2713
2733
in conversation 2723
2753
5.00pm -
Spotlight on Home &
6.00pm
Larissa Behrendt 2714
6.30pm -
Whose reality?
7.30pm
2734
Melbourne Writers Festival Schools’ Program
Booking Form 2008
Invoice ABN 29 367 097 058
(Please note that the MWF does not charge GST, as it is a charitable institution)
Student tickets per session: $6.00 each
One complimentary ticket provided for 1 teacher per group of up to 10 students
Additional teachers: $6.00 each
Event Details
Event No.
Event Title
No. Paid Tix
No. Comp Tix
Total paid tix:__________Total due (at $6.00 each): $__________Total comp tix:____________
Booking Details
Payment Details (inc. GST)
Name/position:
Enclosed is my cheque or money order made
payable to ‘Melbourne Writers Festival’.
School:
Total payment due: $
Credit card option – min $15 (Please circle).
Visa Mastercard
Mailing Address:
Credit card No.
Telephone:
Fax:
Email:
expiry date
Name on card
Please note that your booking wil be confirmed, and
tickets sent, by email, to this email address.
Signature
Festival Box Office: 1300 722 211
Enquiries: (03) 9645 9244
Please post form to: Melbourne Writers Festival, 117 Sturt St, Southbank VIC 3006
Fax: (03) 9645 9344 fax bookings must include credit card details
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. Your tickets and a confirmation of your booking wil be emailed to the email
address on the Booking Form – please ensure that you regularly check this email address.
Please retain a copy of this form for your own records.
A Z
an index of participating authors
Alexandra Adornetto
William McInnes
A
M
Waleed Aly
David Metzenthen
John Armstrong
Tracie Morris
Larissa Behrendt
Robert Muchamore
B Mark Carthew
Joanna Murray-Smith
Rachel Cohn
D
Bruce Pascoe
C Joseph Delaney
Tim Pegler
P
Robert Drewe
John Pilger
Elizabeth Fensham
Richard Plunkett
John Flanagan
Alice Pung
F Adam Ford
Sally Rippin
H
R
Jackie French
Emily Rodda
Simmone Howell
Penni Russon
S
Danny Katz
Diana Sandars
K Margo Lanagan
Sarah Watt
Melina Marchetta
Carole Wilkinson
John Marsden
Lili Wilkinson
Susie May
L
W
22-31
AUGUST 2008
design by elmwood / www.elmwood-design.com.au & Leah Baxter / leahbaxter@live.com.au
