The Spark that lit the Fire Part 2
The spark that lit the fire
I reckon it takes some kind of internal fire to commit to writing a novel. But every fire has to be lit by something – no matter how small a spark – and sometimes those sparks take a long time to land in the right place. In the case of my novel Finding Marco, the spark stayed dormant for over 10 years.
Why Being Proudly Human Matters
Celebrating Authentic Storytelling in the Age of AI
To my granddaughter, about my own kindergarten experience
A loving childhood memory that teaches courage, persistence, and pride.
How to inspire curiosity about biodiversity in youth
A reflection on encouraging young people to care for biodiversity through curiosity rather than guilt.
How I became an accidental novelist by pursuing the story of an endangered butterfly
How an interest in an endangered butterfly led unexpectedly to writing a novel.
Is childhood more complex for young people to navigate these days?
Reflecting on the differences between past and present childhood experiences.
How to think kindly about wasps
A gentle exploration of the vital role wasps play in the natural world.
Here’s the secret to good writing habits
An honest look at building a sustainable writing practice through discipline and life experience.
When Teeing-Off and Writing a Novel Collide
A personal reflection comparing the challenges of golf with the creative process of writing.
Scene from the window
The Coprosma, a weedy tree growing hard up against our bedroom window, had to go. But we hadn’t counted on the wattle birds.
How significant is the loss of insect life in our gardens?
A reflection on noticing fewer insects and what that loss may mean.
Here’s what’s good about cockroaches
A reminder that even the most disliked insects can play important roles in science and nature.