Jane Godwin

Jane Godwin is a highly acclaimed author of over thirty books for children, across all styles and ages. Her work is published internationally and she has received many commendations, including the Queensland Premier's Award (Children's Books), the Aurealis Award and the Animal Welfare Award, and shortlistings in the CBC Book of the Year Awards, the Prime Minister’s Literary Award, the New South Wales State Literary Award (Patricia Wrightson Prize) the YABBA Awards, the Speech Pathology Awards, The Family Award for Children’s Books, and the Australian Book Industry Awards. Jane spends as much time as she can working with young people in schools and communities, running various literature and writing programs, making books and encouraging students in their own creative ventures. Jane lives in Melbourne with her family. Most of her waking hours are dedicated to pursuing quality and enriching reading and writing experiences for young people, whether it’s as a writer, a publisher or a speaker/facilitator in schools.

What kinds of books does Jane Godwin write?

She writes for children across a wide range of styles and ages, including picture books, early readers and longer works for older children and young teens. Her work is published internationally.

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

For young children try picture books such as Can You Teach a Fish to Climb a Tree?, Arno and His Horse or Don’t Forget. For older readers look to novels like Falling From Grace, Tilly or A Walk in the Dark. Choose by the reader's age and reading level.

Has Jane Godwin received awards or recognition for her books?

Yes. Her work has won awards including the Queensland Premier's Award (Children's Books), the Aurealis Award and the Animal Welfare Award, and has been shortlisted for prizes such as the CBC Book of the Year, the Prime Minister’s Literary Award, the New South Wales State Literary Award (Patricia Wrightson Prize) and the Australian Book Industry Awards.

Does she write series and is there a recommended reading order?

She writes both standalones and series. For example, The Isabelle Stories comprise numbered volumes and are best read in order. Many other titles are standalone and can be read independently.

Does Jane Godwin do school visits or workshops?

Yes. She regularly works with young people in schools and communities, running literature and writing programs and acting as a speaker or facilitator to encourage students' creative writing.