Seven local children’s authors to put on your reading list this Book Week
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Until Friday 28 August, schools, libraries, and book lovers across Australia are coming together for one of the biggest celebrations of children’s literature: Book Week.
Organised by the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA), this year the much-loved annual event is focusing on the theme Symphony of Stories – highlighting how different voices, illustrations, and tales come together to create a harmonious love for reading. It’s also the perfect excuse to swap your usual bestseller for something written right here in our own backyard.
Whether you’re a parent looking for costume inspiration or a teacher searching for a new book to read to the class, here are some local children’s authors that should be on your reading list this Book Week.
David Conley
Did you know that David Conley is a Canberra native? An award-winning writer and illustrator of chapter books for kids about mythology, science and the stuff in between, his books are filled with illustrations and lots of fun facts.
Ideal for ages five to 12, who doesn’t love a book that’s educational and entertaining?
Jackie French
If you don’t know who Jackie French AM is, let us introduce you to one of the most well-recognised Australian authors (and honorary Canberran).
Living in the nearby Araluen Valley, she has written over 200 books, including several books for younger readers of all ages. From Diary of a Wombat to The Hitler Trilogy, her works cover everything from picture books to historical fiction.
Sarah Wallace
With experience writing children’s books and working as a reviewer for Kids’ Book Review – publishing over 100 reviews of children’s books covering all genres and age groups – Sarah Wallace is a local author that should be on your radar.
Publishing her first book, Emma’s Freckles, in 2023, she recently released her second picture book, Learning You by Heart, in May 2026. A gentle, lyrical book celebrating the deep bond between parent and child, it’s ideal for young children.
Sandy Bigna
A former children’s librarian, and a mum of three, Sandy is a passionate supporter of local children’s literature. Her debut novel Little Bones is a unique and lyrical verse novel for middle-grade readers, perfect for those who love Karen Foxlee and Zana Fraillon.
All about the childhood joy of collecting small, intriguing objects and creating connections in the most unlikely places, it’s been nominated for multiple awards.
Gabrielle Tozer
You might recognise her name from DOLLY, Cosmo, TV Week and Girlfriend but regional NSW-based author (close enough to be considered a local) Gabrielle Tozer is also an award-winning author.
Her picture books Before We Met and Peas and Quiet are ideal for children three and above, while Melody Trumpet will keep ages eight and above easily entertained.
Shelly Unwin
An internationally published Canberra-based children’s author, speaker, chapter coordinator for SCBWI ACT and Australia Reads Ambassador, a book by Shelly Unwin is always worth having on your shelf.
Make sure to check out narrative non-fiction space adventure Blast Off! the fast-paced There’s a Baddie Running Through this Book, and the sweet Hello, Baby!
Jack Heath
With 48 books under his belt, Jack knows how to tell a good story. Well known for hooking reluctant readers with fast-paced action books written for children and teenagers, his Minutes of Danger series, Scream series and Liars series will keep anyone aged eight to 14 very entertained.
