Bennett, Jean
IN BRIEF
Jean Bennett is an author of children’s books, non-fiction, short stories, poetry, and journalism. Many of her recent books have been published in the United States for the educational market, including series for National Geographic. Her writing for both adults and children has been broadcast on national radio. Bennett was awarded the 2003 Storylines/Betty Gilderdale Award for services to children's literature. She is available to talk to students of all ages and tutors writing workshops for schools and adult groups.
ProfilePlace of residence: Tauranga, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand |
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bennett, Jean (1945 - ) is a children's author and writer of educational material with extensive experience in developing the creative writing talents of students.
Bennett’s recent books, a 'Kids Around the World' series for National Geographic (2007), includes the titles Hopes and Dreams: a Story from Northern Thailand, Stormy Seas: a Story from the Shetland Islands, and Erana’s Land: a Story from New Zealand. These realistic-fiction stories look at challenges that young people face in their homelands and how they make plans for their future.
In her 'Everyday Kids' series for National Geographic (2006), the theme is historical fiction for young readers. Each title in Bennett’s realistic-fiction series contains two contrasting stories. One story focuses on characters in ancient times, while the second story highlights contemporary society in the same location. Book titles in the series are: China, Greece, Rome, Egypt, Mexico.
Below the Mountains, the Diary of Amy McDonald, Milford Road, 1935-36 (Scholastic, 2005) by Bennett is a title in the 'My Story' series. Fourteen-year-old Amy's life changes dramatically when, with her mother and brother, she joins her father in a road works camp deep in the Hollyford Valley. With only a canvas tent for shelter, they endure the extremes of cold, hunger, hardship and tragedy.
Among Bennett’s published books is the novel Call of the Selkie (1999), which was included on the 1999 NZ Children’s Book Foundation notable junior fiction list. She has written a number of fiction books for young people including The Lost Sandals (1999) and The Scary Day (1999); and non-fiction titles such as The Information Book (1993) and Explore the Environment (1995).
Her how-to guide for young people, The Writing Book (Scholastic, 1989), is still used widely in New Zealand and overseas by teachers and students of creative writing. The NZ Listener described it as 'A concise, readable guide ... useful to children at primary and secondary school.'
Also a writer of journalism, short fiction and poetry for an adult audience, Bennett's work has appeared in newspapers and magazines, with poetry and prose appearing in several anthologies. Her work for adults and children has been broadcast on national radio. Bennett is also a qualified librarian and says she enjoys exploring libraries on Writers in Schools visits.
In 2008, Jean Bennett was a guest writer sponsored by Book Council at the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival, Bali.
In 2003, Storylines awarded Bennett the Betty Gilderdale Award for services to children’s literature.
In 2001, she received life membership of Bookrapt, the Bay of Plenty Children's Literature Association.
(Last updated: August 2009)
writers in schools information
Jean Bennett is available to talk to students of all ages through the Book Council's Writers in Schools programme. She is able to discuss the craft of writing fiction and non-fiction as well as poetry. Bennett is willing to talk to large class groups, preferably primary and intermediate level. She will run writing workshops by prior arrangement and is prepared to travel out of town for visits.
KAPAI: Kids Authors' Pictures and Information
Where do you live?
I live in Tauranga. I was born and grew up in Invercargill.
What books do you read?
All sorts - fiction and factual. I especially like stories that tell me about new places, people, and exciting discoveries. Reading a good book is like going on an adventure.
Who is your favourite author?
I think British author Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials series is extraordinary. Mostly I enjoy reading books by New Zealand writers.
How do you think up your ideas?
Often my stories are sparked by real-life experiences, then imagination takes over. One story that was fun to write came from a dream about a woman with a blossom tree growing out of her head.
What is the best thing about being an author?
The surprises that happen when characters become real people and tell their own story.
What is the most fun about being an author?
The great buzz at the start of a book when an idea is fresh and bursting to be written.
What is your favourite colour?
A deep, warm red.
What is your favourite food?
I love fresh, raw oysters - from Bluff, of course.
What is your favourite movie?
I like movies that have a good storyline. And I've enjoyed watching the Star Wars series again from my sons video collection.
Where do you go for your holidays?
I love caravan holidays by the beach. When I go overseas, I like the excitement of travelling to other countries with different cultures.
What is the naughtiest thing you ever did at school?
In primary school, I organised a class rebellion against a crabby teacher who replaced a much-loved teacher. The new teacher won -- she shut me in the stationery cupboard! Later, I was expelled from cooking class --but thats another story...
How did you get started?
By writing and re-writing, and re-writing and ...
Who inspired you when you were young?
A teacher who once said, 'Everyone has a talent. It's your duty to find it and use it.' For many years, I didnt think I had a talent until I discovered the joy of writing.
What advice would you give an aspiring young writer?
Read lots and lots of books. Watch and listen to all that happens around you -- keep notes. Write about what stirs your emotions. Never give up trying.
Is it difficult to make a living writing in New Zealand?
Like most occupations, writers have to work hard to make a living.
What were you like as a teenager?
Restless, and anxious to get out and explore the world.
Media Links and Clips
- Bennett’s profile on Bookrapt, Bay of Plenty Children’s Literature Association
- Christchurch Libraries' site - Interviews with NZ Children’s Authors
- Bennett featured in the 2000 Winter issue of BRAT: Books for Readers and Teachers
