Historical children's fiction can be a critical link that piques a child's interest in both non fiction and history, and South Australian journalist and for award-winning children’s author, Catherine Bauer, this is an area that has really sparked her joy.

In episode 22 of The KidLit Pod, Catherine discusses her creative childhood and how she would delight in making her own books, adding colourful drawings and stapling the pages together. She respects the role that boredom had in developing her imagination, and how encouragement from parents and teachers led her into journalism.

Catherine describes balancing writing with single motherhood and work, her research-driven approach to historical themes, and how journalism skills support accuracy and succinct picture-book craft.

With five children's titles behind her, including award-winning Dreaming Soldiers (about a white Australian boy and an Indigenous friend in wartime), three other picture books and a WWII Amsterdam YA novel, Catherine shares the process behind her latest picture book, Joey Gets His Wings (Big Sky), illustrated by Jennifer Horn, including her research methods, and how it was inspired by real WWI mascots, including pilot Captain Elliot “Tab” Pflaum’s leather kangaroo.

Catherine also shares incredible tips on writing succinctly, alongside her current projects which include another picture book, alongside a cosy crime mystery.

LINKS:

Catherine Bauer on Instagram: @catherinebauerwrites

Catherine Bauer Website: catherinebauer.com

Joey Gets His Wings (latest picture book)

Dreaming Soldiers (first award-winning picture book)

Tulips for Breakfast (YA novel)

Juniper's Painting (picture book)

Colourful Memories (picture book)

Australia Remembers - Len Waters, Boundless and Born to Fly

Follow The KidLit Pod on Instagram (@thekidlitpod)

Find out more about The KidLit Pod host, Shara Curlett, here:

Shara Curlett on Instagram (@sharacurlett)

Shara Curlett Website (www.sharacurlett.com)