Book People: Katrina Germein

Katrina Germein is the author of what has been one of PudStar’s favourite books for nearly two years now – ‘Big Rain Coming’. The Chief Bedtime Reader (Dan) has read this so many times that he knows each and every word by heart – love how that happens with well-loved books! ‘Big Rain Coming’ was written by Katrina when she was teaching in a remote Aboriginal Community. Many of you will be familiar with this bestselling book as it is used extensively in schools and early years settings – there are teachers notes and links for ‘Big Rain Coming’ and other books by Katrina here. If you are doing an author study on Katrina Germein you will find excellent bio notes here.

Katrina’s website contains a wealth of information for parents and teachers on reading and writing, and there are also some great tips for writers.

Katrina’s latest book is ‘Somebody’s House’, a delightful romp around a neighborhood – my review of it is here. Katrina Germein’s books are listed at the bottom of this post, and can be purchased by clicking on each cover.

Thank you so much for joining us here Katrina…and yes good luck indeed returning to teaching!

Ten Things You Need to Know About Katrina Germein

1. Tell us about your latest book.

‘Somebody’s House’ is a playful story about a girl exploring a twisty street and wondering about the quirky characters that live there. It’s colourful and fun and celebrates families and friendship of all kinds.

2. How did you get started as a writer?

I didn’t have an actual plan. I just had a story in my head that wouldn’t go away. It was a tale about the place I was staying and the people who lived there. That story went on to become my first book ‘Big Rain Coming’.

3. What does a typical day look like for you?

It usually starts with a quick dash outside to grab school uniforms off the line so I can throw them in the dryer. Then I make sure my three children have something in their lunchbox before signing notes, putting money in envelopes and checking everyone has their homework (two of the children are pictured below). The day ends with trips to netball practice, footy training and art classes, followed by a lumpy, burnt dinner because I’m a reluctant and unskilled cook. Somewhere in the middle of the day I usually do some writing. I’m also studying a Master of Early Childhood Education and staging a return to full time teaching next term. (Wish me luck!)

4. Can you describe your workspace for us?

I work at the dining room table. There’s lots of sunlight and plenty of room so I can spread out and make a mess.

5. Any words of advice for young readers and writers?

Have fun. You don’t have to finish reading a book that you’re bored with and you don’t have to finish writing a story that you’re bored with either.

6. Do you have a favourite book or character?

I don’t, but at the moment I’m rather smitten with the picture book ‘The Worst Princess’ by Anna Kemp and Sara Ogilvie so maybe I’ll say Princess Sue.

7. If you were not a creator of books for young people what would you be?

I’d like to learn to play the drums but I’m not sure there’s a job in that for me.

8. What is your favourite food to eat and/or your favourite music to listen to whilst you are working on your books?

I snack on dried fruit and nuts and eat quite a lot of chocolate. I don’t listen to music. I need it to be quiet.

9. How much of yourself or people you know is in your books?

Everything comes from something I’ve seen, heard, experienced, felt, dreamt or imagined. You can’t escape from yourself when you’re writing.

10. If you could have one wish for the world what would it be?

How about we get rid of winter?

Thanks Katrina!

You can purchase these books by Katrina by clicking on each cover image.