Imagination Comes Alive at the Writers Festival: Celebrating Australia’s Best Children’s Fiction Authors

Matt Stanton

Literary lovers and families travelling to Sydney have an exciting cultural event to add to their itinerary as the renowned Sydney Writers’ Festival returns with an inspiring program celebrating the magic of storytelling. Among the festival highlights is a vibrant showcase of Australian children’s fiction authors whose stories bring humour, adventure and heartfelt moments to young readers.

This year’s program features a remarkable lineup of writers and illustrators who are shaping the future of children’s literature. From laugh-out-loud graphic novels to moving stories about friendship and courage, the children’s fiction sessions promise to captivate audiences of all ages.

Children’s Fiction Bursting with Adventure and Imagination

Serena Geddes

Australian children’s fiction continues to thrive with bold new voices and imaginative storytelling. One of the standout contributors this year is Matt Stanton, whose latest book Duck: Look Who’s Talking! (2026) delivers fast-paced humour and energetic illustrations that have become his signature style.

Also joining the program is Tanya Hennessy, whose debut graphic novel URANUS FC (2026) combines clever humour with vibrant artwork, offering young readers a fun and engaging new universe of characters.

Illustrator and author Serena Geddes brings another exciting graphic novel to the stage with School Rivals: Ella Forever #1 (2026), a lively story that explores school friendships and competition through colourful storytelling.

These authors represent a growing movement in children’s publishing where visual storytelling and graphic narratives are captivating a new generation of readers.

A Historic Moment for the Beloved Ella Series

Laura Sieveking

One of the most anticipated moments of the festival will be a unique event bringing together all creators behind the beloved Ella book series for the first time. Readers will have the rare opportunity to see the talented authors who have shaped the adventures of the popular character across multiple titles.

The special session will feature Laura Sieveking, author of Ella at Eden: Paris Adventure (2026), alongside Meredith Costain, whose Ella Diaries Super Special #4 (2025) continues the long-running diary-style stories that have delighted young readers for years.

Also appearing are Danielle McDonald, creator of Ella and Olivia: Sporty Stories (2026), and Yvette Poshoglian, whose latest release Party Pups (2026) introduces energetic new characters to young audiences.

Completing the panel is Rebecca McRitchie, who brings readers closer to Ella’s early adventures with Meet Ella: Swim Class (2026).

This rare gathering offers fans and families a fascinating insight into the creative process behind one of Australia’s most loved children’s series.

Stories of Friendship, Family and Growing Up

Tanya Hennessy

Beyond humour and adventure, the festival program also explores deeper themes in children’s storytelling. Popular author and performer Tanya Hennessy shares her uplifting story Sunny and Storm (2025), a touching tale about friendship, resilience and finding confidence.

Award-winning illustrator Cheryl Orsini celebrates the special bond between parent and child with her charming new book Baby’s First Mother’s Day (2026), a gentle story perfect for young families.

Historical storytelling also plays an important role in the program. Acclaimed author Suzanne Leal transports readers to wartime Australia in The Year We Escaped (2025), a powerful coming-of-age story set in Darwin during 1942.

Meanwhile, celebrated author Sue Whiting explores the complex world of teenage friendships in Promises and Other Lies (2026), a compelling story about secrets, loyalty and identity.

A Must-Visit Festival for Literary Travellers

Each year, the Sydney Writers’ Festival attracts thousands of visitors from across Australia and around the world. The festival offers an opportunity to hear from some of the most creative voices in literature while experiencing Sydney’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.

Families travelling to Sydney during the festival will find a diverse range of events designed to inspire young readers and encourage a lifelong love of books. Interactive sessions, author talks and storytelling performances make the children’s program especially engaging for younger audiences.

With its blend of entertainment, education and creativity, the Sydney Writers’ Festival continues to be one of Australia’s most important literary celebrations.

Sydney Writers’ Festival

Website: https://www.swf.org.au
Program details, author events and ticket information are available online.

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