In a climate where kids have more access to information than ever before, how do parents navigate knotty topics, and what media literacy is required to stay abreast of the questions our children might ask?
Bestselling British author Josh Silver writes gripping, plot-driven YA fiction that tackles trauma, mental health, sexuality and technology head-on. In Ruby’s Web, poet and author Ellen van Neerven takes readers into high school corridors with a powerful story about finding your voice, seeking help, and addressing cyberbullying and racist victimisation. And, after the critical reception of her self-published novella about Palestine, The Sunbird, Sara Haddad adapted the story into an illustrated book for young readers that asks, “How could a new country be put inside a country that was already there?”
Join these three writers for young people to talk power, parenting and how to connect with our kids in a changing world.
Sara Haddad is the author of two editions of The Sunbird – an adult novella, which she originally self-published, and is self-publishing again. She is also releasing an illustrated chapter book version that she reimagined for middle-grade readers.
Ellen van Neerven is a writer, editor and educator of Mununjali and Dutch heritage. Her fiction debut Heat and Light was the recipient of the David Unaipon Award, while her latest book, Ruby's Web, is a middle grade novel.
Josh Silver is the author of Happy Head, Dead Happy, Trauma Land and Fruit Fly. He trained as an actor and went on to perform in the West End and on Broadway. After deciding to change careers, Josh now works with teenagers as a mental health nurse.
Maeve Marsden is the Creative Director of Varuna, the National Writers’ House and the Blue Mountains Writers’ Festival.
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Tickets to main program events are included in weekend and day passes. Single tickets may be available from September 8, subject to availability.
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This venue is wheelchair accessible, and AUSLAN interpreters are available upon request. Please email hello@bluemountainswritersfestival.com.au if you have any accessibility requests or wish to book an AUSLAN interpreter. More info about accessibility can be found on our Accessibility page.