About Jeni

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On leaving school I studied to be a Speech Pathologist at Sydney University. Later, I ran the student unit at Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, and then went on to be a Case Manager for the Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service. A change of career led me to Macquarie University, Sydney, and this aspiring Children’s and Young Adult author acquired a Master’s Degree in Children’s Literature.

First published in 2000 with an early reader, Maisie’s Race (Macmillan Education), I have published almost thirty children’s and young adult books – my comedy series becoming an Australian best-seller (the ‘So’ series with HarperCollins). I have published fiction, non-fiction, poetry, verse narrative, interactive scripts, plays, picture books, novels, and early readers across the trade and education markets as well as articles for academia. My career progressed to teaching creative writing at schools, writer’s centres and universities, teaching the Master’s students in Writing for Young Adults at Macquarie University and the Master’s students in Writing for Children and Young Adults at Sydney University.

I call myself a futurist with a passion for innovation and breaking new ground. My published work in Critical Thinking and Humour and my recent foray into Transmedia Storytelling (Kiss Kill by Really Blue Books) are but two examples of this. I have been described as having a child-like curiosity and sense of wonder, and the naivety of venturing where others fear to tread.

Jeni at a SCBWI conference, with a humorously misspelled sign! Jeni Mawter 2008 Somerset Festival of Literature 2008

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Testimonials

Jeni Mawter is one of our most popular creative writing presenters at the Australian Writers’ Centre. Jeni is not only an acclaimed author, she has an obvious passion for sharing her knowledge with aspiring writers. She is dynamic teacher who is generous with her advice and consistently continues to inspire students to hone their talents and pursue their writing goals. We are thrilled that an author with Jeni’s professionalism, experience and expertise is part of our team.

Valerie KhooFounder of The Australian Writers’ Centre, Sydney

Jeni is an active member of the literary scene and dedicated to the promotion and enjoyment of the written and spoken word for our young people.

She is an inspiring and generous speaker whose books “speak” to the young readers of today and I have no hesitation in recommending Jeni.

Helen BainFounder and Director, Speakers Ink Speaker’s Agency

Jeni Mawter is an innovative author in tune with youth and new media.

Hazel EdwardsAustralian National Reading Ambassador 2012NYR

Jeni Mawter has been the New South Wales advocate/ambassador for the Children’s Charity Network in Australia.

She has instrumental in running our programs for disadvantaged children to ensure that as many as possible receive books and workshops to improve their literary skills, this then helps break the cycle of poverty for many disadvantaged children.

Rob LeonardChildren’s Charity Network, Australia

Jeni Mawter is a trailblazer who boldly goes wherever her imagination takes her – a writer who shares her vision and passion in ways that surprise, delight and challenge. She’s always pushed boundaries, questioned the status quo and explored new frontiers. She sees the future of writing, and she’s generous and patient enough to teach and guide others as we all find new ways to continue the age-old art of storytelling.

Sue MurrayWriter and editor

I have had the pleasure of working with Jeni Mawter on many occasions including school visits, video conferences and media interviews.  She is always a vivacious and enigmatic character who enthrals and captivates her audience with anecdotes and stories.  You never know what you are going to get, and you are NEVER disappointed with the result.  Jeni makes work much less of a job and more of a delight!

Bonnie TrattVideo Conferencing Connections Manager, NSW Department of Education and Training, Dubbo