Frequently Asked Questions

There’s no magic formula for achieving success in the writing world and everyone’s pathway is unique. Here are a few things I’ve discovered:

  • A publisher can’t publish an idea. Step One is always the same. Write your book.
  • It helps to network; join a local writers’ group and gain insight from like-minded people. If you can’t find a group or community in real life, search the Internet. You’re sure to find something. A great starting point for Australian writers is The Australian Society of Authors and Varuna The National Writers House. These organisations offer great connections and opportunities. There will also be a writing centre in your state. Find them, follow them and sign up for their newsletter.
  • Do your research and take notice of the publishers who publish the type of story you’re writing.
  • Read lots – Read the kind of stuff you like to write. The best writers read a lot – so do that.
  • Study the craft of writing. Do a course either in real life or online. If you can’t do that, read all you can about writing. My favourites include: Bird By Bird by Anne Lamott, Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert, Dear Writer – revisited – by Carmel Bird and On Writing by Stephen King.
  • Start your own Substack or blog where you can practise your craft and showcase your talents.
  • Consider submitting smaller works to various publishers and competitions. I got my big break with an essay published in Griffith Review. Think about journals, websites and competitions where you could place your work and slowly build your publishing profile.
  • Don’t give up. If you think you’ve got something really special, don’t let a rejection letter stop you!

No – and that’s not because I’m a meanie. It’s because my own writing is all consuming and I don’t have the bandwidth to support other writers. Most days I’m flat out just getting dressed.

Maybe! All interview requests go via my fantastic publicist: Isabelle O’Brien at Allen and Unwin.

Email her on [email protected]

Sometimes! It’s a question for my publicist Isabelle O’Brien. You can email the legend herself on [email protected]