First-ever Puke Ariki writer in residence announced

New Plymouth children's author, Steph Julian, has been announced as Puke Ariki's first-ever writer in residence.

The central city library will be transformed during New Zealand Children's Book Week (15-21 August) into a place where stories aren't just read but created - with tamariki and rangatahi encouraged to explore storytelling through hands-on experiences alongside the published author and create their own works.

Julian (Ngāti Porou ki Harataunga) would be giving emerging young writers tips and tricks while developing her next novel, and opening up about her creative process through public events and workshops that invite tamariki and rangatahi to take part.

A Ngāmotu-based writer, communications specialist and former teacher, Julian has had short stories, poetry and articles published in New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom. Her debut middle grade novel, Penny Pounamu and the Disappearing Tigers, was due to be released by Huia Publishers later this year.

She was looking forward to sharing her love of books and stories with the community.

"I can't wait to spend a whole week in our fabulous library. I feel very honoured to have the privilege of working with young creative storytellers in our community and to support them on their own writing journeys.

"Sharing stories has always been hugely important to me, so being a writer in residence at Puke Ariki Library during Children's Book Week feels very special."

Library programming and community engagement lead Rebecca Beyer said the residency was a first for Puke Ariki Libraries.

"Having an author of Steph's calibre as our inaugural Writer in Residence during the first Aotearoa New Zealand Children's Book Week is a wonderful opportunity for our community.

"The residency invites our tamariki and rangatahi to see themselves as storytellers, and reinforces that the library can be a place where stories grow and are shared."

As part of the residency, Julian would deliver a range of public programmes, including:

Saturday 15 August, 2-3pm

Author reading and colouring competition

Be among the first to hear a reading from Penny Pounamu and the Disappearing Tigers before its release and take part in a colouring competition with spot prizes.

Sunday 16 August, 2-3pm

Create a library book: Inside the Magical Forest

Step into a world of imagination and help create a collaborative book inspired by magical forests. Dress as a forest animal and be in to win spot prizes.

Tuesday 18 August, 10am-12.30pm

Creative writing workshop for senior students

Senior students (Years 11-13) can build their writing skills and learn practical tips for getting published in this hands on workshop. Local high schools will be invited to participate.