Sheryl Gwyther
I’ve lost track of the number of jobs I’ve had since leaving high school – from secretary to a outback solicitor; governess to my (demon) cousins on a NT cattle property; waitress in NZ; Maitre’d in Milford Sound’s resort restaurant; Early Childhood teacher for 5 to 9 year olds at Woodridge North SS; Adult Literacy teacher to Murri inmates in Boggo Road men’s prison (a job I totally loved!), and many more.
Art was also has been a huge part of my life. Nine years part-time at the Brisbane Institute of Art saved my creative soul – and led to sales at art shows and exhibitions. But then writing came along and I was hooked!
I wrote and submitted manuscripts that were rejected. Many times! But over 2 years I must’ve improved because the day I was awarded a highly regarded Australian Society of Authors Mentorship for what became my first novel, Secrets of Eromanga, I began to believe I could write.
Being an author was a lonely experience back then. But I joined the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), a global pond where KidLit creators usually hang out, and the world opened up. I became the Queensland organiser – for 9 years. A great experience. I also made many lasting friendships in the KidLit world.
WHAT I WRITE:
Novels for 10-14 year olds.
Chapter books for 7-9 year olds.
Short stories and plays published in The School Magazine.
Flash Fiction for children and adults.
Writing Awards:
- SCBWI International Regional Advisors Marketing Grant – 2017
- SCBWI International Work-of-Outstanding-Progress Award – 2013 for Sweet Adversity
- May Gibbs Children’s Literature Trust Residential Fellowship – May 2015
- May Gibbs Children’s Literature Trust Residential Fellowship – August 2008
- Australian Society of Authors Mentorship – 2009/10
- Australian Society of Authors Mentorship – 2002/03
- Arts Queensland Individual Professional Development Grant – Masterclass residency. Varuna House 2006
Sheryl Gwyther 