One of Australia's first Family Court mediators, an acclaimed poet with an acquired brain injury and the teenage writer of a fantasy trilogy will be among a panel of emerging local authors showcasing their work at BookFest Nowra next week.
The event provides an opportunity for writers and illustrators to share their creations and take questions from the audience about their inspiration and creative processes.
"BookFest is a fantastic annual event that continues to be a success with the authors and audience alike each walking away with a new understanding and appreciation for storytelling," said Deputy Mayor, Peter Wilkins.
"This year we have an exceptional lineup of authors and poets who also have incredible personal stories on top of the interesting and imaginative works they've penned," Mr Wilkins said.
"I'd like to encourage the community to come along and show their support for these impressive local authors, some of which are well recognised beyond the Shoalhaven," he said.
Widely travelled author, and an acclaimed photographer and artist, Garry McDougall is among the five authors who will showcase their work at BookFest on 31 May. McDougall has been a Feature Poet in the Sydney Writers Festival and won the Peter Cowan Short Story Prize. He will discuss his outback murder mystery novel, Start with C.
Maureen Carter, one of Australia's first Family Court mediators, will join the panel to talk through her memoir, Ten Pounds for Paradise. The book follows her family's travel to Australia, chasing her father's dream of living in Paradise. Ms Carter recounts her challenging childhood and adolescence, her life in Wales, and the adventures of her new home.
Culburra Beach poet, Robert Downie will share his gift of poetry, which he only discovered after acquiring a brain injury when he was struck by a car in 1970. His latest compilation of poetry, Clouds in my Coffee, draws inspiration from the natural beauty of the Shoalhaven. Mr Downie's poetry was first published in Australia's Best Poetry (2001) and has been showcased in other venues, including Sydney's Town Hall.
Sixteen-year-old, Sean Van Hoven will join the panel to share his journey writing his Anathox trilogy. He started writing the series when he was 12, inspired by his passion for ancient history and fantasy. He credits his success to local booksellers and has begun writing a new story based in 19th century Australia.
Historical fiction author, James Seymour, is writing the fourth book in his Turner series, which follows his family history. Set in 1826, it explores the exploits of his great grandfather and the fortunes and adversities of his family as they wrestle with technological and social changes of the Industrial Revolution.
BookFest is a free event that will be held at Nowra Library on 31 May from 10am until 12pm.
