The strong Our Australian Girl series has launched two new characters this year – the passionate Meet Lina has been penned by Sally Rippin and the exciting Meet Ruby series has been created by the delightful Penny Matthews.
Tell us about you in 25 words or less.
I’ve been writing and illustrating for as long as I can remember. When I ran out of books I made my own.
What makes you happy?
Hanging out with my kids.
Where have you always wanted to visit, but haven’t made it to … yet?
Bali. I was always put off by the idea of drunken Aussies, but people who have been say it’s beautiful.
Where is your favourite place to write?
In bed. Warm, comfortable, quiet – looking out over our mulberry tree.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
The power of the rich to the detriment of the poor.
What’s the best thing about being a published author?
Having kids tell me they love my books.
What’s the strangest question you’ve ever been asked?
Why do we have bones? (by a prep student who put her hand up during question time after one of my author talks) Urm, to hold us up, I guess?
Who or what inspires you?
My readers and other writers.
What is your worst habit?
Facebook. The more time I spend on it, the less books I read.
Your favourite word?
Maybe. It gets you out of just about everything.
Where did you gain your inspiration for the character of Lina?
From my the stories of my partner’s Italian family, growing up in Carlton in the late 50s and early 60s.
Did we forget anything?
Your pen?
Just for fun
Tea or coffee? Tea
Paper books or e-books? Paper
Vegemite or Marmite? Neither
Write or type? Both
Poetry or prose? Prose
Beach or bush? Beach
Hot or cold? Hot
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