Colin Thompson

"I have always believed in the magic of childhood and think that if you get your life right that magic should never end."

Since he started writing and illustrating children's books in 1990, Colin Thompson has had more than 50 books published. He has received several awards, including an Aurealis Award for the novel HOW TO LIVE FOREVER and the CBC Picture Book of the Year in 2006 for THE SHORT AND INCREDIBLY HAPPY LIFE OF RILEY. He has been shortlisted for many other awards, including the Astrid Lindgren Award - the most prestigious children's literature prize in the world.

Colin lives in Bellingen, Australia. His books with Random House Australia include HOW TO LIVE FOREVER, numerous picture books, THE FLOODS series, THE DRAGONS series, THE BIG LITTLE BOOK OF HAPPY SADNESS picture book, which has been shortlisted for the 2009 Children’s Book Council Award for Best Picture Book, and FREE TO A GOOD HOME.

What genres and age groups does Colin Thompson write for?

Colin Thompson primarily writes and illustrates children's books, including picture books and longer works for older children. He has also written at least one novel for young readers, HOW TO LIVE FOREVER.

What are his most notable series?

His best known series include THE FLOODS series and THE DRAGONS series. THE FLOODS contains multiple numbered titles such as Neighbours (Book 1) and Lost (Book 10). THE DRAGONS series includes Camelot (Book 1), The Excalibur (Book 2) and Mordred (Book 3).

Where should I start if I am new to his work?

For picture-book readers try THE SHORT AND INCREDIBLY HAPPY LIFE OF RILEY or THE BIG LITTLE BOOK OF HAPPY SADNESS. If you prefer series fiction start with the first book in a series: Neighbours for THE FLOODS or Camelot for THE DRAGONS. For a longer read try the award-winning novel HOW TO LIVE FOREVER.

Has Colin Thompson received any awards or recognition?

Yes. He won an Aurealis Award for HOW TO LIVE FOREVER and the CBC Picture Book of the Year in 2006 for THE SHORT AND INCREDIBLY HAPPY LIFE OF RILEY. He has also been shortlisted for several awards, including the Astrid Lindgren Award, and THE BIG LITTLE BOOK OF HAPPY SADNESS was shortlisted for the 2009 Children’s Book Council Award for Best Picture Book.

What themes and styles are common in his books?

His work emphasizes the magic of childhood and imaginative storytelling. He both writes and illustrates, producing whimsical, visually rich picture books and inventive series that blend humor and fantasy for young readers.