Dim's Write Stuff

In a world where the screams for attention are often paralysing, loud and unrelenting, Mary dwells in comparative silence. Her thoughts are mostly imperceptible. Her words heard only by the keenest of ears. Her actions measured and calm. This quietness allows Mary to ‘ hear things nobody else heard’ , soft, seemingly insignificant things easily overlooked in the chaos of everyday living. Mary is, A Quite Girl and this picture book by master storyteller, Peter Carnavas , is as unpretentious as it is attention grabbing. The only trouble with being so unobtrusive is that inevitably you are completely overlooked. This is what happens to Mary to such an extent that her own family are not able to hear her as she attempts to relay a new and wonderful discovery to them. Mary tries her hardest to speak up but it is never quite enough to break through the clamorous cacophony of life and despite the benign urgings from her family to ‘ use a nice loud voice’ , Mary withdraws even more unt...

Here in SE Queensland a razor edged chill is already slicing through our morning air. The rains have eased and the sunshine begs one to role up their sleeves. It's almost winter but there's still time to reflect on Mothers' Day ...I enjoyed one of the best in years. Definitely something to be said for a child's choice of gift as they advance in years. Still I cherish the handmade books and cards and proud smiles above all else. The Gold Coast held its annual Literati Festival this month as well. This free event hosted by Gold Coast Council Libraries spanning two days, enabled anyone with a love of books, reading and writing to participate in a range of seminars and author encounters. It's an excellent vehicle for learning more about the craft of writing and industry supporting it. This year featured authors included Nick Earls, Angela Savage, Tess Evans, Louise Cusack, Kate Holden and Phil Brown to name a few. Definitely worth marking in your calendar for next ye...