MEM FOX

Born in Melbourne, grew up in Africa, went to drama school in England, and came back to Australia in 1970, aged 22. She became a teacher of drama and then a university lecturer in drama and literacy. In 1996 she retired as an Associate Professor of Literacy Studies from Flinders University, South Australia, where she taught teachers for 24 years.

In 1983 she became Australia’s best-selling writer. Possum Magic, her first book, is still available in hardback after 34 years and has become an icon of children’s literature for millions of Australian families. She claims that growing up outside the country and returning in her early twenties gave her a unique perspective on Australia, and a passionate love for it.

She has written over 40 books for children, many of which have become international best-sellers including Time for Bed, Where Is the Green Sheep? and Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes, a copy of which was Australia’s official gift to Prince George, the royal baby. Mem has also written several non-fiction books for adults, including her renowned book for parents, about how children learn to read: Reading Magic. Her books have been translated into twenty-one languages. Any retirement from writing seems unlikely at present.

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