Conrad Curlew Makes a Newspaper @KeeganPeace

About the Book

Disaster has struck the small Australian town of Gurumba Bigi! When Conrad Curlew arrived early at the community barbeque, he had no idea what shocking events were about to happen. Armed with a paper and pen, it’s now up to Conrad to report the ‘true’ story to the town. Or face the dire consequences! From educator Keegan Peace comes this thrilling and cautionary tale of influence, misinformation, community spirit and the search for purpose.

About the Author

Keegan Peace is an author of children’s literature. A teacher from Ipswich, Queensland – Keegan is passionate about teaching children about social issues through storytelling. It is Keegan’s hope that his stories will find their way into the hearts and minds of his readers from all ages, and help inspire other storytellers and dreamers like himself.

Qn 1: Can you tell us more about your book What is it about?

Conrad Curlew Makes a Newspaper is a book all about the lengths we go to in order to ‘fit in’. My last book, The Polka Dot Prince, was a picturebook that was all about accepting yourself and not trying to be something you’re not. Conrad Curlew is the mirror of that story for young readers that are more mature about the world around them. The story follows an outcast animal in a community of creatures named Conrad. He’s a Curlew, which is a typically disliked bird in Australia. Conrad ruins a big community event, and as penance he has to create a newsletter to spread the message that the community didn’t get to hear due to his actions. He finds unexpected success, and continues the newsletter in the form of a newspaper. From there, the story starts to drift into a fable about the dangers of misinformation and the misuse of the news – with plenty of fun to keep things light!

Qn 2: Who do you think would be interested in this book, is it directed at any particular market?

The book was written with readers age 8-12 in mind. I wrote the book after a class of Year 5 students inspired me one morning. We were doing a lesson on the news and I was shocked how many kids were believing everything that went to print or online without any critical thinking. It’s for that audience, but it’s undoubtedly something that teens and adults can read as well.

Qn 3: Out of all the books in the world, and all the authors, which are your favourite and why?

In 6th Grade, I begged my librarian to let me borrow the senior fiction text ‘Jurassic Park’ by Michael Crichton. From there, I entered into a gateway of obsession with his work. I adore Stephen King, which is ironic, because I am an author of children’s fiction (for now). But, I cannot deny that my biggest inspiration and favourite author is Neil Gaiman. I have an obsession with the craftsmanship behind ‘The Ocean at the End of the Lane’ and have read it countless times. I hope to one day write a book a tenth as good as his.

Qn 4: What guidance would you offer to someone new, or trying to enhance their writing?

Share your work! I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere if I didn’t have people in my life who read and gave feedback that was constructive and positive. Ask your friends to take a look, and never give up.

Qn 5: Where can our readers find out more about you, do you have a website, or a way to be contacted?

You can learn more about me at keeganpeace.com

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