601 episodes
So You Want to be a Writer Australian Writers' Centre
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- Arts
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4.9 • 41 Ratings
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Everything you’ve always wanted to know about succeeding in the world of writing and publishing. Learn practical writing techniques, go behind-the-scenes and discover how real-life authors got their big break. Uncover the creative processes of writers who have made it. Your host is Valerie Khoo – author, journalist, creative and CEO of the Australian Writers’ Centre.
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WRITER 601: Meet Deborah Abela, author of 'The Kindness Project', her 29th book!
Meet Deborah Abela, author of The Kindness Project. Deborah is one of Australia’s most beloved children's authors. Her latest middle grade novel is The Kindness Project, which is her 29th book. Recently, she also released the Book of Wondrous Possibilities. While Deb writes mainly in middle grade, she has also written chapter books and picture books, such as Bear in Space and the upcoming No More Room in the Bed. Also hear about 'Words at Dawn', a writing initiative for students of the Australian Writers’ Centre. And your chance to win the novel The Many Lies of Veronica Hawkins.
00:00 Welcome to the world of writing and publishing01:09 Busting myths about writing for kids02:30 Guest spotlight: Nat Newman's writing tips04:38 Words at dawn: A creative writing initiative15:27 Deborah Abela: A deep dive into middle grade novels27:12 The Kindness Project: From concept to creation29:57 Exploring kindness through storytelling31:38 The creative process and writing in verse32:05 From pitch to publication34:06 Character development and creative inspiration37:55 Rejections and successes in the publishing world39:16 From film to children's books: A career journey43:21 The art of writing across different formats50:51 Engaging with young readers: The importance of school visits55:13 Top tips for aspiring middle grade writers
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Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.com
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WRITER 600: Meet Inda Ahmad Zahri, author of 5 picture books.
Meet Indah Ahmad Zahri, author of 5 picture books including her latest How To Measure The Ocean. Indah, a doctor turned picture book author, delves into her career transition, the inspiration behind her books, and her advocacy work.
00:00 Celebrating 600 episodes: A journey of writing and publishing01:19 Upcoming seminar: Mastering action in storytelling03:45 Nat Newman’s writing tips10:40 Book giveaway: The North Wind by Alexandra Warwick13:00 Word of the week: propinquity15:06 Writer in residence: Indah Ahmad Zahri’s multifaceted career24:25 A magical moment at the beach: The power of picture books25:28 From inspiration to authorship: The journey begins26:57 Celebrating diversity and heritage through children's literature29:09 The challenges and joys of writing for children abroad31:44 Embracing new creative ventures33:13 Balancing creativity and parenthood35:07 Exploring new horizons in writing and art41:36 Leveraging courses for creative growth43:36 Top writing tips and a call to action for writers47:18 Closing thoughts and fun facts
Read the show notes
Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. -
WRITER 599: Becky Holmes on her memoir 'Keanu Reeves Is Not In Love With You'
Introducing Story Seeds! A month’s worth of writing prompts that you get for free. Find out how to get Story Seeds for May. The episode features Becky Holmes, author of Keanu Reeves Is Not In Love With You, a memoir and exploration into online romance scams. Becky shares her journey from opening a Twitter account during lockdown that led to interactions with online scammers, to writing a book that delves deep into the world of romance fraud while intertwining her personal experiences. The episode also includes discussions on writing tips, mental health for writers, and an intriguing conversation about theatre performances.
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Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. -
WRITER 598: Mary Anastasiou, picture book author and managing editor at Five Mile.
Meet Mary Anastasiou, picture book author and managing editor at Five Mile Press, as well as a former creative director at Larrikin House. Mary shares her journey from aspiring writer to influential figure in the children's book industry, highlighting the challenges and rewards of publishing picture books. She discusses the importance of illustrator-author dynamics, how to successfully submit manuscripts, and offers invaluable advice to aspiring authors and illustrators. Additionally, the episode includes insights into the process of creating picture books, from conception to finished product, and touches on the nuances of the publishing industry. Mary also talks about her latest picture book Julius Squeezer.
Read the show notes
Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. -
WRITER 597: Kell Woods on her novel 'After The Forest'.
Meet author Kell Woods, who discusses her approach to writing, her novel After the Forest, a sequel to Hansel and Gretel, and the blend of history and fantasy in her work. Kell shares insights on the research and discipline required to weave together historical accuracy and compelling storytelling.
Read the show notes
Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. -
WRITER 596: Carrie Sun on her memoir 'Private Equity'
Meet Carrie Sun, whose memoir Private Equity explores her journey from a high-paced finance role to embracing a writing career. Carrie discusses her writing process, the challenges of memoir writing, and the transformation she underwent during her time in the finance industry.
Read the show notes
Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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I just started listening to this when I saw that you guys interviewed my favorite author! I got sucked in and I am loving all of these podcasts!
Yes, I want to be a writer.
I first tuned into "So You Want To Be A Writer" podcast when my kids were all in high school, and I was spending a lot of time driving them here and there. I listened to Val and Al chit chat about all things writing while I was trying to figure out what I would do when I was no longer driving to this or that. Through their conversations and author interviews, I began to believe that maybe, I too could be a writer. I tuned in every week, sometimes every day trying to catch up on the back catalog, and learned something, sometimes many things, from each episode.
A couple of months ago, I launched my youngest chick out of the nest, and last week, I finished my first manuscript. I'm so grateful to Val and Al for all that they do every week to encourage new writers like me. Their honesty about their experiences and generosity with their knowledge is what helped me get the pages written. No matter where you are in your writing journey, this podcast will enhance the ride.