We’re inviting Melbourne teachers to join us for a special information night on Tuesday 24 March at our Hawthorn shop, where you can enjoy a drink, chat with Readings staff members and meet some of our favourite authors: Andrew McDonald, Chris Miles, Gabrielle Williams and Fiona Wood! (Plus, you’ll receive a 20% discount off any books you purchase on the night!)

The evening will be split into two main presentations, and guests are welcome to stay for both.

Primary Schools (5.30pm to 6.30pm)

Readings managing director Mark Rubbo OAM, Readings schools liaison Ann Le Lievre and children’s specialist Emily Gale will discuss the services Readings can offer teachers and schools. Readings Children’s Book Prize manager Angela Crocombe will then present our 2015 prize shortlist aimed at 5-12 year olds.

Then children’s book authors Andrew McDonald and Chris Miles will chat about how they use humour to get challenging issues out in the open – McDonald’s novel Son of Death is a funny and smart way of talking about death with 9- to 12-year-olds, and Chris Miles’ Spurt: A Balls and All Story offers a hilarious take on going through puberty.

This event is free but RSVP is essential. Click here to make a booking.

Intermission (6:30pm to 6.45pm)

In between both presentations, our team of children’s specialists will be available to discuss any classroom and library needs. And our visiting authors will be happy to sign any copies you purchase for your school (or for yourself!). All books can be purchased at a 20% discount.

Secondary Schools (6.45pm to 7.45pm)

Mark, Ann and Emily will again briefly discuss the services Readings can offer teachers and schools for any newcomers. Emily and Ann will then present some of their YA highlights of the year – both new and upcoming.

Following this presentation, highly-acclaimed authors Fiona Wood and Gabrielle Williams will speak together under the broad theme of teenage resilience, referencing their four outstanding YA novels. One of the characters in Fiona Wood’s bestselling novel Wildlife takes centre stage in her forthcoming novel, Cloudwish, while Gabrielle Williams’ brand new The Guy, the Girl, the Artist and His Ex is the first book in a brilliant trilogy set in Melbourne that involves priceless art, ancient myths and teenagers navigating their way through the last year of school.

This event is free but RSVP is essential. Click here to make a booking.