So You Want To Be A Writer With Valerie Khoo And Allison Tait: Australian Writers' Centre Podcast

Meet Sandhya Parappukkaran, a picture book author with four wonderful books that have all been shortlisted or have won Premier’s Literary awards. This is a huge achievement for this former food technologist who started writing picture books on a whim not that long ago! Sandhya discusses her journey to becoming an award-winning writer, the inspiration behind her stories, and shares valuable tips for aspiring picture book writers. 00:00 Introduction to the podcast00:20 Special series on children's authors01:48 Weekly app tip: Submittable07:53 Interview with Sandhya Parappukkaran09:14 Sandhya's journey to writing picture books14:40 The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Name: From idea to book deal23:55 Exploring Sandhya's recent works33:12 Tips for aspiring picture book writers37:59 Conclusion Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Lisa Kenway, author of the psychological thriller All You Took From Me. Lisa shares insights on how her medical background influenced her novel, the exhaustive research involved in writing about medieval reenactment, and the persistence required to secure a publishing deal after three years of pitching. 00:00 Introduction02:25 Nat Newman's creative insights05:43 Writing tips and techniques10:22 Giveaway: Klim by Michael Klim12:20 Word of the week: triskelion15:19 Interview with Lisa Kenway, author of All You Took From Me23:20 NaNoWriMo success strategies25:54 Researching for authenticity30:03 Crafting twists and red herrings32:41 The journey to getting published44:11 Balancing writing with a medical career47:19 Top tips for aspiring writers50:42 Conclusion and final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Bec Nanayakkara who discusses her journey to becoming a published picture book author. Bec reveals how she got her book deals, her writing techniques, the illustration process, and much more. Also discover how our app recommendation can help you keep track of submissions.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:20 Special Series on Children's Authors01:55 App Tip of the Week06:56 Course Spotlight: Writing Picture Books09:07 Interview with Bec Nanayakkara09:53 Bec's Journey to Publication10:32 The Book Star: Inspiration and Process16:02 Grow Big Little Seed: Themes and Illustrations23:15 Future Projects and Final Thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Sandie Docker, who shares her journey and strategies for ensuring longevity in your author career. Sandie emphasises the importance of networking, connecting with readers, and seeking help in areas outside of one’s expertise. She also discusses her role in starting the Northern Beaches Readers Festival and how it has benefited her career. 00:00 Introduction00:19 Upcoming webinar on avoiding infringement in fiction writing03:38 Nat Newman's lighthouse residency experience07:27 Writing tips from Nat Newman12:45 Exciting book giveaway: The Oxenbridge King by Christine Paice16:07 Word of the week: Gravamen17:45 Interview with author Sandie Docker27:06 Establishing an author career28:47 Building industry relationships33:40 Connecting with readers37:02 The role of an agent41:06 Starting a literary festival48:35 Writing routine and final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for

Cassy Polimeni discusses her journey to becoming an author, the process of writing and publishing her books The Garden at the End of the World and Ella and The Amazing Frog Orchestra, and valuable insights into writing for the children's market. 00:00 Introduction to the podcast02:02 Writing tips with Nat Newman09:46 Interview with Cassy Polimeni11:21 Writing and publishing children's books13:34 Crafting Ella and The Amazing Frog Orchestra20:25 Cassy’s writing process and routine27:28 Future plans and final thoughts28:53 Conclusion and course promotion Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet memoirist Louise Southerden about her book Tiny, which details her experience building a tiny house while going through a challenging relationship. Louise shares her journey into travel writing, the dynamics of writing personal stories, and techniques for capturing the essence of travel experiences. 00:00 Introduction04:16 Nat Newman’s writing tip13:15 Book giveaway: Girl Falling by Hayley Scrivenor15:06 Word of the week: Piscatorial17:12 Writer in residence: Louise Southerden17:36 Introduction to Louise and her memoir Tiny18:11 The emotional journey of building a tiny house19:39 Deciding to write the memoir20:58 Challenges and process of writing24:38 Pitching and publishing the memoir35:16 Insights on travel writing41:49 Defining a tiny house43:08 Conclusion and final thoughts43:35 Fun fact and farewell Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Children’s author Carla Fitzgerald is author of the middle-grade novel How to Break a World Record and Survive Grade 5. Carla shares insights into writing compelling stories for children and offers five must-do tips for aspiring middle-grade authors. Additionally, Nat Newman provides a practical app tip about the benefits of using Google Docs. And more. 00:00 Introduction to the podcast00:19 Spotlight on children's authors01:27 Weekly app tip with Nat Newman01:55 Google Docs: A writer's best friend06:24 Course advertisement: Writing children's novels07:16 Interview with Carla Fitzgerald12:28 Five must-do's for writing middle grade novels25:23 Building a sustainable author career32:50 Conclusion Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode, we bring you an edited version of the recent webinar featuring bestselling author Kate Forsyth. The episode is jam-packed with insights, focusing on five essential lessons from different genres that can improve your writing. Kate Forsyth delves into historical fiction, crime and mystery, romance, fantasy, and magic realism, sharing her top tips for writing compelling and immersive narratives. Additionally, the episode features a Q&A session where Kate answers questions on writing routines, character development, publishing, and more. The episode offers practical advice and inspirational insights for aspiring and established writers. 00:00 Introduction and welcome00:16 Special episode announcement01:04 Competition announcement02:39 Word of the week03:18 Webinar introduction05:20 Kate Forsyth's writing journey08:59 Lessons from historical fiction11:30 Lessons from crime and mystery14:44 Lessons from romance16:46 Lessons from fantasy19:28 Lessons from magic realism24:30 Q&A sessi

Meet Deborah Frenkel, author of four picture books including her most recent: 100 Schools Days and The Truck Cat. Deborah reveals her journey to publication, her creative process and tips for aspiring authors. 00:00 Introduction to the podcast00:19 Special series on children's authors01:34 Nat Newman's app tip of the week10:43 Interview with Deborah Frenkel19:29 The journey to getting published20:18 The impact of writing courses22:27 Pitching The Sydney Harbour Fairy24:19 Creating 100 School Days26:15 Showcasing published works31:37 Upcoming projects and writing routine35:12 Tips for aspiring authors37:28 Conclusion and final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

JP Pomare on writing gripping crime thrillers and his latest novel 17 Years Later. JP discusses his writing process, research methods, and experiences with book adaptations into TV series. The episode features insights on maintaining creativity, the importance of method writing, crafting captivating crime narratives, and tips for aspiring writers. JP highlights the intricacies of plotting and characterisation in crime fiction, his unique approach to developing a story, and how he navigates the darker aspects of true crime. 00:00 Introduction and upcoming event02:06 Creative catch-up with Nat Newman05:48 Writing tip of the week08:46 Book giveaway: Precipice by Robert Harris10:19 Word of the week: Cantillate11:55 Interview with J.P. Pomare28:12 Challenges of writing crime fiction29:50 Balancing plotting and pantsing32:21 Crafting memorable scenes35:46 Daily writing routine39:16 From book to TV series51:12 Handling dark themes in writing55:24 Future plans and advice for writers01:01:19 Conclusion and fun fact Re

Meet Lian Tanner, who reveals 5 strategies you need to build longevity into your author career. Lian also discusses her latest picture book, When the Lights Went Out. Lian covers: writing to your passions rather than market demands, seeking valuable feedback, continually learning the craft, and being open to reinvention. She also shares her process and experiences in writing middle grade and picture books. 00:00 Introduction to the podcast00:17 Special series announcement00:56 Writing for children02:10 Nat Newman's app tip09:18 Interview with Lian Tanner10:23 Lian Tanner's writing journey13:25 Writing for different age groups14:35 Balancing writing projects20:12 Advice for aspiring authors21:39 Writing with passion and originality23:22 Early career temptations and lessons25:33 The importance of quality feedback29:05 Developing thick skin and learning mindset35:17 Reinventing yourself as a writer40:09 Crafting picture books: A deep dive43:16 Conclusion and final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valeri

Meet Julie Bennett, author of The Lost Letters of Rose Carey. Julie discusses her writing process, the inspiration behind her novel, researching historical fiction and career journey so far. 00:00 Introduction and welcome00:19 Exploring Rocketbook04:06 Shoutout to Jane Sullivan05:29 Nat Newman writing tip: Introduce a dinosaur14:12 Book giveaway: The Wilds by Sarah Pearse15:55 Word of the week: avoirdupois18:37 Interview with Julie Bennett26:03 Plotting vs. pantsing: A writer's journey26:42 Discovering the inspiration behind the novel28:49 From child performer to author30:52 Committing to writing31:51 A lifelong love for stories32:37 Writing The Understudy: From idea to manuscript34:03 Getting published36:06 Balancing PR work and writing40:38 Researching historical fiction45:51 The reality of being an author48:50 Future plans and writing tips52:27 Conclusion and final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.c

Meet Anna Johnston, author of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife, her rapid success, and her writing process. 00:00 Introduction01:15 Literary competitions and overcoming fear02:58 Nat Newman writing tip: Taking your character on a date10:24 Book giveaway: Two Daughters by Alison Edwards11:52 Word of the week: Desuetude13:23 Interview with author Anna Johnston20:33 The importance of a writing group21:00 Forming and maintaining a writing group22:20 Balancing writing with life23:02 Getting serious about writing24:21 The book deal journey25:42 Pitching at virtual speed dating29:31 The role of an agent31:49 Writing process and character development34:09 Challenges and inspirations41:10 Future plans and advice for aspiring writers45:11 Fun fact: The world’s oldest library Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet author Victoria Purman, an accomplished historical fiction writer, who delves into her research and writing process, the inspiration behind her latest book The Radio Hour. Victoria offers valuable writing tips and the episode provides a deep dive into her journey, character development, and practical advice for aspiring writers. 00:00 Welcome to Episode 61402:42 Upcoming webinar: Matching Style to Genre04:37 Nat Newman’s writing tip of the week12:14 Competition: Win Highway 13 by Fiona McFarlane14:23 Word of the week: Cacography17:21 Interview with Victoria Purman25:49 Exploring the creative process26:59 Researching historical context29:33 The journey to becoming an author32:03 Teaching and learning writing33:07 Writing routines and challenges36:40 Character development insights41:43 Setting and location research49:06 Finding inspiration for stories53:28 Top writing tips for aspiring authors55:35 Fun Fact and conclusion Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Fa

Meet Amy T. Matthews, an award-winning author and associate professor, about her varied writing career under different pseudonyms, where she shares her approach to balancing multiple writing projects and her thoughts on the romance genre. All of Amy’s books are traditionally published and she also writes under Amy Barry and Tess LeSue. 00:00 Introduction00:18 TikTok and who is doing it right?02:41 Nat Newman writing tips22:03 Interview with Amy T. Matthews, also known as Amy Barry and Tess LeSue29:55 From bad poetry to a PhD in creative writing31:30 Transitioning to romance writing32:11 The fascination with romance34:01 The birth of Tess LeSue35:23 Navigating the publishing world42:56 Balancing writing and teaching47:06 Intensive writing process57:42 Future aspirations and tips for aspiring writers01:01:38 Conclusion and fun fact Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inform

Meet Petronella McGovern, author of The Last Trace. Petronella shares her top 5 tips on creating narrative tension and so that readers keep turning the page. You'll discover techniques on character development, the challenges of editing, writing cliffhangers, ensuring you have internal and external conflicts and much more. 00:00 Introduction and welcome00:18 TV series based on books02:28 Nat Newman's writing tips on writing accents10:46 WIN: Lies & Weddings by Kevin Kwan13:51 Word of the week: Psephology15:12 Interview with Petronella McGovern, author of The Last Trace23:09 Introducing the multi-generational characters23:46 Crafting emotional connections with characters24:55 Narrative tension and point of view decisions26:40 Internal and external conflicts27:56 Writing realistic teenagers30:41 Drip feeding secrets and foreshadowing34:18 The importance of cliffhangers35:15 The evolution of writing process39:52 Balancing subplots and multiple POVs42:25 Final thoughts and future projects45:16 Conclusion and

Meet award-winning poet, novelist, and translator Lia Hills. Lia reveals her innovative approach of narrating her novel, The Desert Knows Her Name, using voice recognition software while on location in the desert. She completed her first draft in TWO WEEKS! You’ll discover Lia’s methodology, challenges, and the profound connection between place and narrative. 00:00 Introduction and host's update02:00 Nat Newman’s writing tips05:51 Words at Dawn writing community08:00 Keep it simple10:21 Useful apps for writers12:31 Book giveaway: The Haters by Robyn Harding14:53 Word of the week: Imbroglio15:35 Interview with Lia Hills27:01 Immersing in character narration28:23 Writing in the desert29:11 Specific writing spaces31:50 Challenges and reflections34:39 Community engagement and research38:47 Editing and software tips49:23 Future writing methods51:17 Final thoughts and tips53:42 Podcast conclusion and resources Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersC

Meet Kyra Geddes, author of The Story Thief. Kyra discusses her journey from idea to publication, the importance of research, and the challenges of editing her manuscript. The episode concludes with writing tips and a book giveaway: The Wrong Man by Tim Ayliffe. 00:00 Introduction01:33 Nat Newman’s writing tips09:10 Book giveaway: The Wrong Man by Tim Ayliffe11:20 Word of the week: Fuscous11:54 Interview with Kyra Geddes28:48 The journey to starting the manuscript29:53 Overcoming the fear of the blank page30:56 The long writing process31:54 The path to publication32:51 Facing rejections and manuscript assessments34:06 Pitching to publishers35:45 The epiphany: Switching to first person37:58 Securing a publishing deal42:38 The structural edit challenge50:01 Future writing plans51:33 Top tips for aspiring writers53:28 Conclusion and final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for

In this special time-sensitive episode of 'So You Want to be a Writer,' Valerie Khoo discusses the prestigious Richell Prize with Vanessa Radnidge, Head of Narrative Nonfiction and Literary at Hachette. The episode dives into the details and benefits of entering this unique prize, which offers a $10,000 reward and a year-long mentorship with a Hachette publisher. 00:00 Introduction and special episode announcement00:35 The Richell Prize: An overview01:47 Interview with Vanessa Radnidge, Head of Narrative Non-Fiction and Head of Literary at Hachette.03:05 Details of the Richell Prize06:08 The mentorship experience10:53 Advice for aspiring writers16:59 Encouragement to enter literary competitions Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Michael Brissenden who chats about his latest novel Smoke. He discusses his research process, where he gets his ideas, how he uses a whiteboard in his writing process and transition from journalism to fiction writing. 0:00 Introduction and welcome00:23 Success story: Sarah Speedie03:40 Nat Newman's writing tips05:58 Finding beta readers12:41 Competition: Win 'Death in the Air' by Ram Murali14:52 Word of the week: Embrocate17:55 Interview with Michael Brissenden, author of Smoke23:30 Facing rejection and finding inspiration24:25 From journalism to fiction writing25:13 Crafting a nuanced story26:42 Developing characters and plot27:36 The writing process and challenges28:35 Exploring themes in 'Smoke'32:45 Research and authenticity34:30 Daily writing routine36:18 Planning and structuring a novel41:23 Journalism skills in fiction writing46:00 Creating a strong female protagonist51:22 Top writing tips for aspiring authors53:54 Conclusion and final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listener