Queensland author, Sheryl Gwyther writes novels, chapter books, short stories and plays for children, and Flash Fiction for adults.
In 2002 and in 2009, Sheryl was awarded two Australian Society of Authors Mentorships to work on her novels-in-progress. Secrets of Eromanga was published in 2006 and the second, Sweet Adversity is in the hands of a publisher.
In 2008 and in 2015, Sheryl was also awarded two May Gibbs Children’s Literature Trust Fellowships to work on her first draft novels for 11-14+ year olds. The Four Seasons of Caterina l’Artiglio, set in 18th Century Venice is now complete and also being considered by a publisher.
As the Queensland advisor for the international Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and a former director on the Board of the Australian Society of Authors, Sheryl is a passionate advocate for literacy, literature and its creators.
1. Have you been to the Sandcliffe Festival before?
No, this is my first time. Looking forward to it too.
2.What are you looking forward to and how did you become involved in it this year?
I was asked to chair two sessions. Literary festivals are great places to connect with book lovers, and also with other writers.
3.What is the main focus of what you will be speaking about at the festival?
I’m chairing two sessions on Saturday 29th at Bracken Ridge Library: 9am-10.30, Unique Journeys with authors June Perkins, Duncan Richardson and Michael Aird.
And 11am-12.30, Write of Passage with authors and journalists, Susan Johnson, Lauren Daniels and Jacqueline Henry. Should be fascinating!
4. If you could choose to be a favourite literary character, who would you be and why?
I’d love to be Bartimaeus, the irascible 5,000-year-old djinni in Jonathan Stroud’s truly original series, The Bartimaeus Trilogy. Imagine having the ability to take on any human, animal or demonic form you desire, mostly to escape death at the hands of a huge golem, a mob of fire-breathing implets or a multitude of other perils.
I love Bartimaeus’s sassy sarcasm and wit, mostly directed at humans and lesser demons, but most of all I adore his fascinating, uneasy relationship with young magician’s apprentice, Nathaniel. Bartimaeus is a prime example of how one ancient djinni can show more soul, heart and bravery than most humans.
You can find out more about Sheryl on her website
Gumboootspearlz 
Lovely to find out these interesting snippets about Sheryl, here on your blog, June. Best wishes to both of you for the festival.
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