Belinda Murrell
While Belinda studied Children's Literature and Media Studies at Macquarie University, her passion for children's literature was reignited when she had her own three children. She began telling and writing stories for Nick, Emily and Lachlan. Belinda comes from a very literary family, with a history of Australian writers stretching back 180 years. Her great-great-great-great grandfather James Atkinson published his book on Australia in 1826, while his wife Charlotte published the first Australian children's book in 1841. The family has been writing ever since. Belinda's brother, Nick Humphrey and sister, Kate Forsyth are also both published best-selling authors.
Belinda lives in Manly in a beautiful old cottage overlooking the sea with her husband Rob, three gorgeous children and lots of animals including a brave and loyal Rhodesian Ridgeback called Asha, who was the inspiration for one of her characters.
Author's Comment: Q: What is the best thing about writing for children?
A: I love seeing children reading my books and enjoying them. One day I saw a boy walking along the pavement with his head buried in the Quest for the Sun Gem and he was so engrossed in the book he nearly bumped into a lightpost. That was one of the best moments of my life. I also love meeting and talking to children about books. It is such a thrill when children talk to me about the book and tell me their favourite parts. I love sharing the books with my own children - they give me ideas and ask me questions about why I have written things.
Nationality: Australian