In the last twelve months I have been talking about my sci-fi novel ‘Grey Nomad’ (Brio Books, 2023) non-stop (or so it seems). During the interviews, panel conversations, and interviews I have also learned all sorts of things about my book that I didn’t predict! For instance,
- 30-something-year-olds love reading about an intrepid 70 year old
- Knitters want a copy of the pattern for JT’s scarf (working on it!)
- Satirical politics wins over non-sci-fi readers (who knew?)
- Some readers come for the humour and some for the science. Lucky for me, the novel has both!
The world of writing festivals is filled with tireless committee members and wonderful interviewers who selflessly give their time to prepare and present these events. My thanks to everyone I had the good fortune to meet over the last year – it’s been a wonderful experience.
Here are a few more highlights to add to those I’ve talked about in this blog before:
Mudgee Readers’ Festival August 2023
This festival invites you to share the friendliness of the Mudgee community with food, entertainment, and of course reading. Sharelle Fellows, a retired history teacher, interviewed me in such an insightful and thorough way I really think she knew more about my book than I did.
The Book Lovers Club, Northern Beaches September 2023
This mega book club plays a large part in the community of the northern beaches of Sydney. My mum joined it back in the early 70s, so I was thrilled to be able to speak about her influence on me as a reader and writer when I talked there. Special thanks to Glenys Murray, librarian and beta-reader extraordinaire, for all her support.
Maitland Indie Festival October 2023
Whether it’s art or literature, if it’s independent and local then it fits the mission of this festival. I joined novelist Amber Jakeman (latest novel ‘Summer Beach’) to discuss the phenomenon of ‘cosy fiction’ with Meg Vertigan, author of ‘The Strong Dress’ (Puncher & Wattman, 2023). Our audience agreed with us that just because the story is ‘cosy’ doesn’t mean it lacks punch.
‘Pirate Purl’ – Katrina Kellett
What a legend! Katrina runs ‘Pirate’ Purl’, an independent hand dyed yarn business which produces a colour range that is both beautiful and environmentally sound. Throughout 2023, Katrina volunteered to host my book about knitting-mad Joyce on her sales tables at the many yarn and fibre festivals throughout NSW and Victoria. I can’t thank her enough – though perhaps a sequel could include an indie dyer as a character??!! (stay tuned).
