Latest News
October 2024
I’m very proud and excited to announce that my latest book, ‘All About PDA – An Insight into Pathological Demand Avoidance’, is now available at most online bookstores. A huge thanks goes to the the PDA community who have given their time and wisdom and expertise to help me capture the essence of PDA! 
july 2024
I was pretty excited to see that ‘All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum’ made it to the top selling books for July at Hive bookstore in the UK. Considering it came out in 2020 that’s not bad going
may 2024
A huge thanks to Allen & Unwin Books for Josie Montano‘s and my book prize as part of our Forevability Awards win. Looking forward to sitting back with a coffee and delving into some YA by some terrific Australian authors: Asphyxia, Will Kostakis, Anna Whateley and Rebecca Lim.
may 2024
Very happy that The Secret Science Society in Space, that I co-authored with Josie Montano, published by Wombat Books, won third place in the Forevability awards! It’s an award based in Australia and New Zealand focussing on books that empower, connect and support those with disability, illness, and neurodiversity.
April 2024
I was excited to learn that my mini book, Autism Spectrum and Your Child, published with New Growth Press, has been contracted to be translated in Portuguese, Urdu and Farsi. Once they are released, I will have my books translated into 21 languages!
April 2024
Chuffed to be listed in the Fox News article as a go-to book for World Autism day. I stand in great company along with Temple Grandin, Mark Haddon, Naoki Higashida and others. I was wondering why my US rankings were so high this week https://www.foxnews.com/health/world-autism-awareness-day-celebrate
February 2024
Oxford University Press Children’s Story Writing Competition in Dubai
Each year, I am one of the judges of the Oxford University Press’s Story Writing Competition which is part of the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. The top three entries in each age category are included in a published book. This is a hugely exciting and rewarding experience for young writers and I am proud to be a small part of it. Congratulations to all the winners and I am only sorry that I couldn’t be at the presentation in person.
You can read about it at https://menafn.com/1107831608/Young-Enjoy-Their-OUP-Story-Writing-Competition-Win-At-The-Emirates-Airline-Festival-Of-Literature-2024
Young Enjoy Their OUP Story Writing Competition Win At The Emirates Airline Festival Of Literature 2024
Dubai, UAE, 08 February 2024:
The next generation of writing talent, the winners of the Oxford University Press (OUP) Story Writing Competition, were honoured at the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature in a special prizegiving ceremony. The annual competition is a fixture of the academic calendar with almost 4,000 students from the UAE sending in their entries this year. Students were invited to write their stories prompted by this year’s competition theme ‘Beginnings’. The competition runs in Arabic and in English and is divided into age-specific categories: 11 and under, 12-14, 15-17 and 18-25. Each winner received a winner’s plaque, five copies of the book containing their original short stories and complimentary access to the Festival sessions.
Jennifer Duggan , Schools and Qualifications Regional Manager, Gulf, Oxford University Press, said: “At Oxford University Press, we are always looking for innovative ways to support the needs of learners. And our youngest learners have been supported by this competition for many years now. The works of short fiction that we got to read this year were of the highest standard and we hope that this competition and the published anthology serve as a launchpad for these budding writers.”
OUP winners – Arabic, 2024
11 and under:
Hadi Ali Mohammad Alyamahi, Zayed Education Complex, Fujairah
Alma Baha Obaid, Albashair Private School, Abu Dhabi
Ali Mubarak Saleem Alkheeli, Al Mabade School, Abu Dhabi
12 – 14:
Tasareen Marissa Robin Alec, Dubai National School – Twar, Dubai
Aisha Khalid Altamimi, Albashair Private School, Abu Dhabi
Sela Rabih Salmo, Deira International School, Dubai
15 – 17: Mariam Ayad Alkindi, School of Research Science US High School, Dubai
Fatima Ali Aleid Alsuwaidan, Al Shawamekh School, Abu Dhabi
Saif Majid Alshamsi, Dubai National School – Twar, Dubai
18 – 25: Rahf Ziauddin Issa, Alhikmah Private School, Ajman
Usman Alzaabia Mir, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi
Rawdah Salem Ali Alqaidi, University of Sharjah, Sharjah
OUP winners – English, 2024
11 and under: Laranya Gupta, GEMS Modern Academy, Dubai and Hannah Rebecca Main Garcia, Nord Anglia International School, Dubai
Riddhi Sandeep, Al Diyafah High School, Dubai
Anashwara Rajesh Nair, Leaders Private School, Sharjah
12- 14: Alula Grace Marsh, South View School, Dubai
Shekinah Grace Prince, Deira International School, Dubai
Arshi Dawar, Ambasaddor International Academy, Dubai
15-17: Mara Machado-Mullett, Jumeirah English Speaking School, Dubai
David Fosman, Swiss International Scientific School, Dubai
Mohammed Zaahir Jaleel, GEMS Our Own English High School – Boys, Sharjah
18-25: Yassmeene Saleh, American University of Dubai, Dubai
Zahra Almahroon, Middlesex University, Dubai
Isabela Pedraz, Middlesex University, Dubai
Competition entries in Arabic were judged by Ayah Qasim, Ali Azzedine, Muhannad Al Akous, and Manea Al Maeni. The competition entries in English were judged by April Hardy, Kathleen Butti, Kathy Hoopmann and Rehan Khan.
Other initiatives celebrated at the Festival includes the Voices of Future Generations, which launches its fourth anthology of winning stories; the School Librarian of the Year; RGS Guildford Dubai Children’s Letter Writing Competition; Chevron Reader’s Cup; ENBD Poetry For All;Book in a Box and Digital Storytelling competitions; and the announcement of the third cohort of fellows for the First Chapter: ELF Seddiqi Writers’ Fellowship.
The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature Festival is held with Founding Partners Emirates Airline and the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), the Emirate’s dedicated authority for heritage, arts, and culture. It is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai.
January 9 2024
The life of an author is not always behind a computer. Sometimes it’s perfecting the White-of the-Eyes, Piggy-Nostril, Gopher-Mouth Snarl. (Having fun with Josie Montano at the Nundah library with a bunch of promising writers, who also are good at funny faces
)
December 13 2023
Mitchelton Library Author Session
Josie Montano and I had a great session with an amazing bunch of kids at the Mitchelton library today. Imaginations were flowing and there were definitely some future authors and illustrations amongst them (including the mums and dads who sat in as well
).
September 29 2023
Zoom is a wonderful tool for authors! I had a great interview with Prince William County Public Schools today in Virginia, whilst sitting on my couch in Brisbane, Australia. The chat was translated simultaneously into Spanish, Urdu, and sign language.
September 23 2023
The Secret Science Society in Space Book Launch
The Book Launch for The Secret Science Society in Space, published by Wombat Books, was a blast! I had astro-nomical fun with co-author Josie Montano and Buzz Aldrin Lightyear. Thanks to Moreton Bay Region Libraries at Arana Hills Library for their support and their brilliant Space Dogs
september 13 2023
Josie Montano and I are reaching for the stars. This article in Moreton Daily about our new book ‘The Secret Science Society in Space’, published by Wombat Books is out of this world!
New book celebrates Space and diversity
A visit to a space exhibition at the Queensland Museum gave two Moreton Bay authors the inspiration for the sequel to their first children’s book in the Secret Science Society series.
The release of Josie Montano and Kathy Hoopmann’s The Secret Science Society in Space follows on from the success of The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment.
The books celebrate diversity and individuality, with characters Zane, who has ADHD, Bart, who is autistic, Kiki, who has anxiety and Mona, who has challenges of her own.
The Secret Science Society In Space follows the adventures of the four students, who are forced to work together to represent their school to produce a project for a science fair.
After visiting a space exhibition, the members of the Secret Science Society are alarmed to discover that Laika, the first dog to orbit the Earth, was sent up in a rocket with no chance of return.
They decide their project for the science fair will be to create a spaceship that could bring animals home safely.
Working together
Kathy and Josie, who have each published dozens of fiction and non-fiction works, say working together on a project brings a different dimension to writing.
“If we ever disagreed about something we would remember ‘A + B = C’,” Josie, who lives at Ferny Hills, explains.
“It’s not my voice, it’s not Kathy’s voice, it’s a new voice.”
Kathy, of Bunya, says the characters’ personalities evolved during the creation of their second book.
“Writing together brings out the strengths of two people – Josie and I are very different people and it makes it stronger,” she says.
“It brings out something we couldn’t have done on our own.
“We did it chapter by chapter – I would write and Josie would edit and then Josie would write the next chapter and I would edit that.
“We knew the character traits very well and it was exciting to see them evolve.”
Josie says fans of The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment will see Mona mellow during the course of The Secret Science Society in Space.
“She’s a mean girl and she’s trying to be cool, but they have to work together – she’s actually quite nerdy and she’s trying to be cool.
“When Kiki gets upset, she puts her arm around her.”
Supporting each other
Josie and Kathy met two decades ago at a writers’ festival at Ipswich and had toyed with the idea of writing together for years.
“We realised we both had kids on the spectrum and understood each other’s lives,” Kathy explains.
“I had just written a book where the main character had Aspergers and gave it to Josie to check it out – it was my start into children’s writing.
“Then I was away for 13 years, then when I moved back Josie was so close and we ended up working on the first book.
“One of the things that was important was that we showed that these characters had weaknesses and strengths but they were supportive of each other.”
Kathy says while the theme of The Secret Science Society in Space was flagged at the end of The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment, it was a space-themed evening at the Queensland Museum that really kicked things along.
“The idea of building a rocket to protect dogs came from the museum,” Kathy says.
“We had an absolute ball gadding about with astronauts, pretend-flying real live rocket ships and making other people point and laugh as we moonwalked around in paper helmets,” Josie laughs.
“Kids just love space and rockets and planets but we had to be really careful how we did it so as not to traumatise children with the story about Laika and that’s where Kiki’s character really helped.
“Her way of dealing with anxiety is to solve the problem.”
August 27 2023
10 out of 10 tacos! Now that’s a fine tasting review of The Secret Science Society in Space. Thanks Liv and David Lawrence. Check it out Here. The review starts at 30 mins 30 secs
August 25 2023
Check out this great review from The Children’s Book Council of Australia
This is the second book in the series following on from The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment about Mona, Bart, Kiki and Zane – the Secret Science Society – who all have their special talents and abilities, including… Zane who is impulsive, full of ideas and has ADHD and best friend Bart, who loves space facts and is on the autism spectrum.
The science fare is only weeks away and after the Secret Science Society’s practice session goes horribly wrong, they are ordered to go to Planet World to get inspiration for a safer, more appropriate entry. Zane’s stellar ideas, however, once again threaten to derail everything.
Moving at a rocketing pace, this story, much like Zane, rarely stops for breath as it zooms towards the day of the fair, with space facts and puns aplenty.
Reviewed by Deborah Abela
August 12 2023
I had the pleasure of attending the Omega Writers Brisbane Showcase this weekend. Heard some great speakers, had a lot of laughs and mingled with like-minded writers with amazing stories. I also launched The Secret Science Society in Space that I co-authored with Josie Montano and that was published by Rochelle Stephens of Wombat Books 
july 2023
I had a very glamorous time launching Josie Montano latest book Mia’s Glamma, held at the lovely Quick Brown Fox Bookshop (which was celebrating its first birthday!) The book is illustrated by Carla Hoffenberg, truly an amazing talent. Unbeknownst to Josie, I uncovered her big secret – this is not a children’s fiction book, but rather her autobiography! There was lots of pink and lots of laughter
Can’t wait for the sequel!
june 2023
The Quick Six Interview with Kathy Hoopmann and Josie Montano
Welcome to #TheQuickSixInterview with Kathy Hoopmann and Josie Montano!
A Secret Society … in space! We’re intrigued!
Following their inventive first book in the series, Kathy Hoopmann and Josie Montano, together with the illustrations by Ann-Marie Finn, bring back their clever science team in The Secret Science Society in Space! (We interviewed them about Book 1 here, and read Kate’s review here). Science Fairs, rockets, animals in space, and DISASTER. Find out more about this fun and zany book with its bunch of loveable, diverse characters. Thanks for sharing your story, Kathy and Josie!
Kathy has written over twenty books for children and adults, including picture books, novels and nonfiction, with translations into as almost as many languages. All up she has around fifty of her books in different languages on her shelf. She has won, and been shortlisted for, numerous literary awards including the Children’s Book Council of Australia Award, the ALCS Educational Award (UK), the Living Now Award (US) and has four times been awarded a Nautilus Award (US) which is granted to ‘books that change the world’. Kathy is best known for her writing on neurodiversity, and her photo illustrated books, All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum, All Dogs Have ADHD, All Birds have Anxiety are bestsellers worldwide.
Kathy Hoopmann is on Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIn.
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Josie’s an award-winning author with 24 years within the publishing industry, and more than sixty resources published in Australia, UK, Italy & USA. Writing under two pseudonyms – Montano, fiction and resources on Autism – Santomauro. Recipient of many literary awards and achievements including a residency with the May Gibbs Children’s Literature Trust and presenter with ‘Out of The Box’, QPAC. Josie identifies as an older female with disability (MS) from a culturally diverse background. She grew up in rural Australia within a strong Italian community, incorporating the serious and humorous experiences as a 1st generation Australian within her stories. Her play ‘The Great Escape, Italian Style’, trod the boards at the Gympie Rush Festival, now produced as an award-winning short film, ‘The Great Salami Breakout’. Josie’s interest in Autism began when son was diagnosed 30 years ago, this set the cogs turning to create resources to fill gaps. Josie’s a storyteller who strives to advocate and who celebrates diversity.
Josie Montano is on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
WHO wrote, illustrated and published this book?
The book is written jointly by co-authors Kathy Hoopmann and Josie Montano, and is illustrated by Ann-Marie Finn. Published by Wombat Books.
WHAT is it about?
THE SECRET SCIENCE SOCIETY IN SPACE is a fun story about diversity and individuality and the joys of science. It follows the adventures of four students who are forced to work together to represent their school to produce a project for a science fair. Zane has ADHD, Bart is autistic, Kiki has anxiety and Mona is, well, Mona is Mona. After visiting a space exhibition, they are alarmed to discover that Laika, the first dog to orbit the Earth, was sent up in a rocket with no chance of return. They decide that their project would be to create a spaceship that could bring animals home safely. On the day, Zane not only sneaks in a real dog but has the brilliant idea of cooking a piece of steak for ‘space-smell’ authenticity. Naturally, this leads to DISASTER! The twist gets even bigger when it is revealed that Mona’s dad is a real live astronaut. Despite a comedy of errors, naturally, they win first prize. As they work together, the very diverse characters discover that they all have strengths and weaknesses and that to be the best team, they had to support each other in the difficult times and celebrate the good.
WHAT is your favourite part of this book?
Kathy: My favourite part was where Skylar jumps out of Kiki’s arms and runs around the earth model. Dog orbits the earth!
Josie: My favourite part is their Planetworld excursion and the Secret Science Society’s first-hand experiences and excitement.
WHEN did you begin writing this book?
We started dabbling with the idea back in 2017 when we presented a proposal to Wombat Books for a series based around four very different children forced to work together in a science club. The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment came out in 2019 and it was around then that we started work on book two. Luckily for us, the Queensland Museum had a special space-themed evening and we had an absolute ball gadding about with astronauts, pretend-flying real live rocket ships and making other people point and laugh as we moonwalked around in paper helmets.
WHEN is its release / launch date?
It will be released on 1st June with plenty of time for schools who are celebrating Science Week in August. Our launch date to be confirmed.
WHERE did the inspiration for this book come from?
We knew the theme would be based around space, however it wasn’t until we went to the space exhibition that we came up with the idea of making Laika, the first dog to go into space, central to the plot. It made sense that Kiki, our sensitive and anxious character would be upset to discover that Laika never returned from that trip. From there, it was logical that the Secret Science club would make a spaceship specifically to keep dogs safe in space. When we found out many astronauts notice that objects returning from space had a smokey smell, we let Zane, our character with ADHD, use his imagination and create his usual chaos. All lots of fun.
WHY is this book meaningful to you and how does the message resonate with readers?
With our combined understanding of mental and developmental diagnoses that have lots of letters (ASD, GAD, ADHD), we wanted to create a world where all children are included and accepted and valued for who they are. It is our hope that this aim will resonate with all readers, and especially with those with autism, anxiety and ADHD. All children will be able to see themselves through the characters on the page and also learn through their fun, exciting and unexpected experiences.
This book also allows the reader to have entertaining experiences whilst learning about Science.
HOW do you feel about the illustrations / cover design?
We are very pleased and comfortable with Ann-Marie’s illustrations again. She did an amazing job on the first book and brings our characters to life.
HOW do they convey the feeling or mood you envisioned?
Her simple line drawings capture all the expressions and body language of our characters in ways that words aren’t unable to.
HOW have you promoted this book and how can we find it?
We were thrilled when it had its international debut in March at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, where Josie was able to attend and represent us.
It will be distributed internationally and is available at all good book stores and online.
OTHER information or experiences you’d like to share?
We made a fun little video about our research for the book. You can see it on this You Tube link.
may 2023
I’m very proud and excited to announce that All About Dyspraxia won silver in the children’s illustrated nonfiction section of the Nautilus Book Awards in the US! These are awards especially given to books that change the world. Former winners include Deepak Chopra, the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, and Charles — Prince of Wales. I’m in good company!
april 2023
Here are the covers of the Dutch translations All Dogs have ADHD and All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum published by Uitgeverij Pica. It’s always interesting to see how different publishers choose different covers and even titles.
March 2023
Josie Montano, my co-author for the Secret Science Society Series, was privileged to travel to the Bologna Book Fair in Italy and discovered a copy of our new, as yet not released middle grade novel, The Secret Science Society in Space. Great to know that it already has had its international launch!
February 2023
Did you know that the distance between Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia and Brisbane in Queensland is around 15,000km. Thank goodness for zoom! I had a great time chatting with Mary Beth and Erika about my books. Thanks for making me feel so welcome! You can see our chat HERE
DECEMBER 2022
Eleven years ago I wrote The Leopard Poachers, beautifully illustrated by Donna Acheson Juillet, and it’s been in circulation ever since with Harper Collins UK as part of their Big Cat series. They have now partnered with the Literacy Charity, Bookmark, https://www.bookmarkreading.org/ and The Leopard Poachers will have new lease of life helping children to read. Makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside 🙂
November 2022
Today I had one of my zaniest research interviews for my book on PDA, this time with AJ and her gorgeous support dog (and her fabulous mum, Chris). AJ did this amazing drawing of me in about three minutes! (Picture posted with permission) #pda #neurodiversity #Autism
SEPTEMBER 2022
Well, I’ve started my research for my new book on PDA. What is PDA? Glad you asked! It’s Pathological Demand Avoidance, a rare and extreme profile of autism. Tracey Churchill, Founder and CEO of PDA Australia and mum to a PDAer spent hours chatting with me giving me her wisdom and advice. It truly is a fascinating diagnosis. I think I am going to love writing this book! Her daughter, Miss S, filled in the time by reading the entire book, The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment, in one sitting. She is an amazing reader with a great taste in books!
SEPTEMBER 11 2022
It was great to speak at the International Church of Turin in Italy today on Raising Neurodiverse Kids. The audience itself was diverse with people from all over the world; Cameroon, Bolivia, Norway, Nigeria, US and even some Australians! Lots of discussions over delicious handmade aperitivos. The photos don’t do the day justice. Thanks for making me so welcome!
AUGUST 2022
I had a blast presenting on the Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment with Josie Montano at the Ipswich Story Arts Festival at the beautiful Woodlands of Marburg.
July 2022
Each Friday Powell’s Books puts out a list of five books on a particular topic. This week, the topic was depression and anxiety. Well, I made number 6, which I think is pretty neat!
Five Book Friday: You Are Not Alone… And We’re Glad You’re Hereby Amanda B., July 8, 2022 9:03 AM  I’ve suffered from depression and anxiety most of my life, and there was an unfortunate lack of resources for me to deal with it or hear stories of others with similar struggles until I was an adult. I’m thrilled that there are now so many resources for folks of all ages, but especially kids and teens, to not only learn how to cope with and manage their mental health, but also to learn about others who share the same (or different!) struggles as them. It’s so valuable to learn that you are not alone, whether you struggle with your mental health, or love someone who does. The display is a mix of fiction and practical advice/coping skills, as well as some humorous, anxiety spiral-destroying activity books. I hope the books on this display can help folks to understand (and love) themselves, their friends and family, and to destigmatize mental illness just a little bit more.
Darius the Great Is Not Okay by Adib Khorram was one of the first books I ever read where a character’s mental illness was not the sole defining factor of their personality. Sure, Darius has depression, but he’s also into Star Trek and the art of tea-making. This novel brilliantly displays how depression, while always present, doesn’t have to take over one’s life, and is easier to cope with when you finally find that friend or family member who really gets you. While my experiences couldn’t be more different than Darius’s, I found him and his story to be incredibly relatable. You’ll cry by the end, but in the best way.
People often associate mental health issues with adults, but so often these issues start when we are very young. Learning to recognize mental health struggles and developing coping strategies is a crucial step in achieving and maintaining good mental health, and Faith G. Harper’s book Befriend Your Brain: A Young Person’s Guide to Dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Freak-outs, and Triggers, provides some tools for doing so. It’s hard to grow and thrive when your brain is constantly telling you everything that’s wrong with you and the world; I wish I had this book growing up! While the tools and strategies provided in this book aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution to mental illness, there is something useful for everyone here. May we all befriend our brains.
Mental illness can be so isolating, often causing one to feel as if no one could possibly understand them or their struggles, though ironically, millions of people experience some form of mental illness. Life Inside My Mind offers readers some comfort and solidarity — a community of understanding — by featuring thirty-one of the most beloved YA authors of the 21st century sharing their struggles and experiences with mental illness. These personal stories work to destigmatize mental illness by reiterating that many of us struggle and it’s okay to talk about it, and that by doing so we help each other to feel supported and less alone.
Long before I ever sought out professional therapy, I used art as a way to work through my feelings and soothe my anxiety. I’m terrible at meditating in the traditional ways, but drawing, for me, has an almost hypnotic effect and never fails to ease my anxiety and worry. This charming book by The School of Life offers gentle prompts that encourage you to turn inward and examine yourself through the act of drawing, often leading to profound insight into one’s thoughts and feelings. While drawing is certainly not a substitute for professional care, it is an easy (everyone is an artist, I promise!) and enjoyable exercise that anyone can benefit from.
On its surface, Jenny O’Dell’s book How to Do Nothing seems like it has nothing to do with mental health. The book isn’t your typical anti-social media treatise; rather, it is a call to get off the internet (just for a minute, I promise!), to be mindful, present, and maybe smell a flower or two. It is a call to be conscious of the ways in which our capitalist, productivity- and attention-driven society affects our mental health, and the ways we can shrug off those restrictions and find connection and community in the real world. While it’s been a bestseller since its publication in 2019, How to Do Nothing has become even more crucial for generations who have only ever known a world with social media, and for everyone who’s found themselves going extremely online since the pandemic began. Because five sometimes isn’t enough, here’s a bonus sixth recommendation:
I can’t even count how many times I have soothed my anxiety by looking at photos and videos of cute/kooky animals, and All Birds Have Anxiety by Kathy Hoopmann is one of my most reliable resources. While the book was originally intended for young children experiencing anxiety, I, a 30-something adult, find it an extremely useful distraction and a sure-fire way to interrupt an anxiety spiral. The sparse text and hilarious photos explain anxiety while simultaneously distracting from it, breaking the sense of isolation which often accompanies mental illness. It’s hard to feel alone when even the birds know what you’re going through. This book is a perfect addition to mental health toolkits for all ages! |
APRil 2022
Forevability Book Award Runner up!
I am very happy to announce that The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment, that I co-authored with Josie Montano, came second in the Forevability Book Awards! We were in amazing company with Cecily Anne Paterson and Deborah Kelly, great authors and lovely people. The full list can be read HERE
1st – Lola in the Middle- written by Cecily Anne Paterson (Prize Winner)
2nd – The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment -Kathy Hoopmann & Josie Montano (Prize Winner)
3rd – The Thing About Oliver- Deborah Kelly
April 2022
Red Reading Hub Review of All About Dyspraxia
So It’s always exciting to get your first review. Thanks Red Reading Hub! You can read in online HERE
As with her All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum, Kathy Hoopmann uses superb colour photos
of animals paired with a direct text (plus occasional thinks and speech bubbles) to show children how dyspraxia isn’t all about being clumsy. Along with other neurodiverse people, those with dyspraxia have brains that are wired differently from others.
This means we learn, that a child with dyspraxia might become adept at avoiding activities if they fear they might fall but with encouragement and time, with the activity or instructions broken down and lots of practice, they often manage a lot better. It’s good to allow plenty of time to learn a task or grasp new ideas,
and to celebrate achievements: reading for example is tiring and the text may well become blurred.
Did you know that movement often facilitates listening for a dyspraxia learner and for those who find writing especially challenging, a keyboard can make life much easier.
Rather than making a child with dyspraxia anxious by saying that they are lazy, not trying hard, not listening or whatever, it’s important for adults – parents, teachers or other educators – to appreciate how hard they work, how clever they really are, to celebrate their creativity, their unusual ways of solving problems, their determination and successes.
A book to have in school collections, both to show educators and classmates ways to be understanding and supportive, and to lend to parents with a child recently diagnosed with dyspraxia.
March 2022
Best New Asperger Books to Read in 2022
So proud that for the second year in a row, ‘All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum has made The Book Authority Best New Aspergers Books To Read In 2022. As featured on CNN, Forbes and Inc – BookAuthority identifies and rates the best books in the world, based on recommendations by thought leaders and experts. Check out the full list here.
March 2022
I’m very excited that The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment, co-authored with Josie Montano has been shortlisted in the Forevability Book Awards 2021! This awards showcases book with the themes of disability and illness. Congratulations to all on the list. All are great books with much needed content.
https://www.facebook.com/Forevability/photos/a.117331447242411/259582266350661/
March 2022
Jessica Kingsley Publishers have put up my blog piece about why I wrote All About Dyspraxia. You can check it out here.
February 2022
Every year since 2009, I have been one of the judges for the Children’s’ writing competition at the Emirates Airlines Festival of Literature in Dubai. Kids winning entries are published in a real book which is a huge boost to their confidence and encourages authors of the future. It’s nice to get a mention in the Gulf News about this year’s competition. Read about it here.
February 2022
All About Dyspraxia is supposed to be released this month, but due to complexities that arose from covid it won’t be released until next month. To whet your appetite, here are a few images from the book.
November 2021
I am very excited, and honoured, that my Danish translator, the lovely Anne Skov Jensen has written her own foreword to the Danish version. (You can buy the Danish version HERE)
Kathy Hoopmann wrote in 2006 the classic All Cats Have Asperger’s Syndrome, a book that has a very special place in my heart. It came out shortly after my son was diagnosed with autism and the book was a huge help in introducing him to autism in a positive, funny and appreciative way.
The pictures of all the cute cats, together with the short but precise description of what it’s like to be on the autism spectrum, makes it the perfect book to learn about autism in a gentle, heart warming and humorous way, regardless of whether you are on the spectrum, a parent or other family member, classmate, friend, colleague or professional in the autism field. The pictures call for both seriousness and laughter, and it also gives the reader an opportunity to talk about a difficult topic in an easy and enjoyable way.
Over the years, I have recommended the book to a lot of people and have time and time again experienced that both children and adults on the spectrum and their families have shown the same enthusiasm for it. That is really the best recommendation a book can get. I am so incredibly happy that I have been given the opportunity to translate this new edition into Danish.
Much has happened in the field of autism since 2006, and Kathy has gently and with great care updated the book and adapted it to the societal development, which naturally affects our understanding of and approach to autism. One of the important changes is that the book is now gender neutral, as it has been increasingly recognized that autism is not gendered. The language has also been adapted to today’s social understanding and recognition of diversity. In my translation, I have had a lot of focus on the fact that this is also reflected in the Danish version.
Now that I have known Kathy’s Cat Book for many years and have put many hours of work into translating the new edition, the question is: Have I grown tired of reading it?
The answer is a resounding NO!
Every time I read in it, it still gives me a sense of being heard, met and understood as an autistic individual, and I’m certain that others will feel the same way. And I will never get tired of looking at all the beautiful and cute cats.
I am really looking forward to using the book in my work as an autism advocate and give it my warmest recommendations.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the book. I hope you will love it as much as I do.
Anne
November 2021
I enjoyed being interviewed today on radio 2RRR with Jeanine Sciacca and Clare Williamson on their Meaningful Monday Show. I got to talk all about my writing life and my books, especially my photo illustrated one. You can listen to us HERE.
October 2021
Every now and again I get someone contact me via my website to tell me how they have enjoyed my books, which is, of course, music to an author’s ear. However I have never had anyone tell me that they have used my books as an icebreaker activity, until today 🙂 Joss Morgan, a proud Asperger’s and ADHD woman who
also has kids with special needs and is a disability advocate, hates icebreaker activities, like many of us do. However, when forced to design an such an activity for an online course, she based it around my books. I though it worth reproducing here. Thanks Joss!
October 2021
The Experience Collectors Masterclass
Last weekend I ran a writing masterclass with these lovely people at ‘the tree house’ run by The Experience Collectors. Thanks Kylie Cox and Sarah Nelson for inviting me into your tribe.
August 2021
Of Mice and Aliens has just been released in German by LIBELLUS Autismusverlag ! This book was first released in 2001 so it’s humbling to know that it still is relevant and a great read today. I now have my books translated into 19 languages and, all together, have 44 translated books on my shelves.
June 2021
I’m very happy to announce that All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum has been shortlisted in the Children’s Picture Book section of the Caleb Awards which are presented by Omega Writers.
June 2021
All Birds Have Anxiety is out is Danish! This is my fourth Danish translation along with All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome, All Dogs Have ADHD and The Essential Manual for Asperger Syndrome (ASD) in the Classroom. All have been faithfully translated by Anne Skov Jensen to whom I am in great debt.
May 29 2021
The Experience Collectors Autism Excellence Awards
I had a great night presenting at The Experience Collectors Autism Excellence Awards alongside fellow Jessica Kingsley Publishers author, Yenn Purkis. These awards were given to inspirational individuals and businesses who have had a significant impact on the autism community. Congratulations to all the well deserved winners and to Sarah Nelson and Kylie Cox for creating experiences that autistic kids and adults will never forget. As a thankyou, I was given a gorgeous little masterpiece by autistic artist, Ava Neeska. It’s just lovely and sits nicely on my miniatures shelf!
May 2021
An extract of my minibook, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Your Child: Help for Your Family, has been posted on the Christian Parenting website
april 2021
I am looking forward being part of the CYA All Stars conference! There are loads of authors and illustrators and agents and publishers to listen to over each weekend in July. My session is on Saturday, 24 July 2021, 10:45am AEST and I will be presenting on Neurodiversity in Literature- the history, the hoopla and the hope.
April 2 2021
March 2021
March 2021
I am very excited that All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum was chosen as the Best Buy for World Autism Day by the Independent. See the full article here: World Autism Awareness Day: 9 best books to read
All Cats Are on the Autism Spectrum is our best buy; it has a universal appeal, is useful as a social story tool, and is a feel-good read. The books in this round-up have been selected because of their content – such as if the author writes about a subject that’s not normally covered – and have been chosen by an Autistic writer.
A lot of literature about autism often focuses exclusively on autistic children, so we’ve tried to offer a variety of perspectives in our choices.
‘All Cats Are on the Autism Spectrum’ by Kathy Hoopmann, published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers
A “social story” is a tool that can be used to explain particular concepts, and the unclear expectations that may be involved, to people on the spectrum – like a transition to secondary school, for instance. Hoopmann has reversed the technique: All Cats Are On The Autism Spectrum can be used to explain a diagnosis to an older family relative. Photographs of cats with witty captions explain the nuances of grappling with day-to-day life on the spectrum.
February 2021
Thank you Book Links – The Centre for Children’s Literature for my $50 gift voucher. And just for renewing my membership! It was hard to choose which books to get from Riverbend Books. My first choice was ‘Sand’ by Hugh Howie I have just finished his amazing trilogy of ‘Wool’, ‘Shift’ and ‘Dust’ and so getting the fourth in the series was a no-brainer. My second choice was ‘The Left Handed Booksellers of London’ by Garth Nix. They say you should never judge a book by its cover, but no one said you cant judge it by it’s title! The by-line of ‘Authorised to Killl… and sell books’ won me over as soon as I saw it – and besides I’m a huge fan of Garth Nix’s writing. Now to grab a coffee and put my feet up…
December 2020
An interview with Norah Colvin at Readilearn
Norah Colvin is passionate about reading, education and children. She put those loves together to create Readilearn – an online site which is made up from three components that she believes are the foundation of education:
- empowerment through reading
- life-long learning
- with the focus on the individual learner.
I read. I learn. I am.
I was privileged to have her review my latest updated books. All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum, and All Dogs Have ADHD. Here’s a snippet from her review:
“They are definitely beautiful books and delightful to look at, filled from cover to cover with cute cat and dog images. However, the books are more than just that. Kathy shines a positive light on the sometimes-quirky behaviours that are endearing in pets and helps us recognise the beauty and joy we can discover in diversity. She encourages us to accept ourselves and others just as we are.”
November 27 2020
Podcast interview with Sue Larkey
Sue Larkey is passionate about all things autism, so it was great fun being interviewed by her in her podcast series about my updated All Cats and All Dogs books. Listen to it here.
October 31 2020
Red Reading Hub – Jill R Bennett’s Review
It’s always exciting to read the first review of your latest book. All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum was reviewed by Jill R Bennet on her Red Reading Hub site. You can read it here.
Jill works with Early Years children and acts as a consultant for Early Years Education, literature and literacy and occasionally RE. With an MA in Education, particular interest in picture books, poetry and books with a ‘spiritual’ dimension, she has spent all her career furthering the role of literature as a vehicle for literary (and literacy) development and is the author of Learning to Read with Picture Books.
Here’s a snippet of her review…
This book is an updated version of the author’s 2006 All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome and since then what is considered acceptable terminology has changed and the author says in her note for this edition that people’s views are not all the same and that she hopes ‘readers will see past the finer details of disagreement and join me in celebrating, and deepening our understanding of, the richness and diversity of the autistic community.’ You can’t say fairer than that. 😊
October 11 2020
Lydia, an Autistic individual who documents life on the Autistic spectrum, interviews loads of interesting people, so I feel very honoured that she reached out to me for her latest newsletter. Read all about our chat here.
Here’s a taster…
Would you consider yourself to be a cat person?
I love cats. I grew up on a small farm and we always had a house cat or two that were loved and cared for, plus lots of barn cats that bred wild and kept down the mice, but definitely did not like to be cuddled. (I learnt that the hard way.) However, as I grew older I developed an allergy to cats so I have not been able to own one for a very long time – not that you can ever really ‘own’ a cat, of course 😊
October 4 2020
My updated version of All Dogs Have ADHD came out in August and on October 3 it was number 1 bestseller on Amazon AU for Books on Disability for Young Adults PLUS number 1 in Physical Impairment for Young Adults! And it’s also number 2 in Children’s Learning Disorders with an overall Amazon ranking of 2,185 in Books. Stoked!
Then to top things off, the next day, it was knocked off the perch by my new book ‘All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum’ which is a bestseller in 3 categories. It’s not even released yet!!!!
September 2 2020
Return to school after covid lockdown.
If you have either children going back to school after a long stint under lockdown, or if you are a teacher getting your class ready for these children, then Dr Hélène Cohen has a great video with tips on things to watch out for and how to deal with the stresses that the children are facing. Here’s her video Return to School .
She kindly mentions All Birds Have Anxiety around the 12:10 min mark 🙂
Her website Please Miss is also chocked full of amazing tips and advice about the schooling and teaching experience, so well worth a browse.
August 13 2020
It’s almost here!
The updated version of All Dogs Have ADHD is due out later this month. Here’s a blog piece I wrote for Jessica Kingsley Publishers UK. Click HERE
August 13 2020
It’s almost here!
The updated version of All Dogs Have ADHD is due out later this month. Here’s a blog piece I wrote for Jessica Kingsley Publishers UK. Click HERE
July 2020
‘All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum’ promo
My publisher, Jessica Kingsley Publishers has produced this little video promotion for the release of All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum. Cute and fun!
June 2020
Updated editions of All Cats and All Dogs
I’m very excited to announce that my updated versions of All Cats and All Dogs are due out later this year. Each book has gorgeous all-new photos, is written in gender neutral language, has a fresh new layout, and adjusted text that reflects the latest understandings of autism and ADHD respectively.
March 14 2020
Omega Writers Book Fair
I had a lovely time at the annual Omega Writers Book Fair. Once again, I shared my table with Rhonda Valentine Dixon. I was also on a panel discussing difference and diversity with Jenny Woolsey and Adele Jones with Mazzy Adams as our moderator. A huge thanks to the Omega Writers team who put all this together, despite the ominous lurking of the covid 19 virus!
March 12 2020
Romancing the Stars
Ever speed dated an author? You should try it some time! Along with 18 other authors and illustrators, I had 3 minutes to stun a bunch of librarians and other book lovers with my literary genius – and I did that nine times in a row! It was also a great opportunity to catch up with friends and meet new ones, and brave a hug before the covid19 turns us all into hermits. Josie Montano did a great job of MCing and a huge thanks has to go to Jenny Stubbs and the Book Links drew for all their work towards getting this off the ground.
February 10 2020
Reading Well for Children Booklist
Oh wow, this is amazing! All Birds Have Anxiety has been chosen to be part of the Reading Well Scheme in the UK. This is what makes writing all worthwhile. I am blown away to know that my book will now be in 95% of the public libraries in the UK, and promoted in the school system across the country, in order to support those with mental health issues.
Here’s a bit of background to the scheme: To coincide with Children’s Mental Health Week, UK charity The Reading Agency and Libraries Connected launched a new children’s mental health scheme as part of their Reading Well programme. This new Reading Well for children booklist responds to concerning data about children’s mental health in the UK. One in eight (12.8%) 5 to 19 year olds had at least one mental health condition when assessed in 2017. In 2018, Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health reported that schools were on average making 183 Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) referrals every school day, with 56% of those referrals coming from primary schools. In 2019, BookTrust reported that over a third of parents of children aged 4 to 11 worried about their child’s mental health at least once a week. Check it out here.
december 19 2019
Just Write For Kids Top picks for 2019
The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment has made the list! Check it out here.
december 18 2019
Teacher’s Manual in Estonian
It’s always exciting when I receive a new translation of my book in the mail. The first thing I try to do is guess the language. I admit, this one got me stumped, but then it’s not every day you get to read something in Estonian! Love the cover!
November 16 2019
ALCS Educational Award Shortlisting
I’m thrilled to announce that All Birds Have Anxiety has been shortlisted for the ALCS Educational Writers Award in the UK.
To say I am excited is an understatement!!! This book has already had international acclaim as the 2018 Charlie Waller Memorial Award Opt-in Book (UK) (1000 copies given away to promote awareness of mental illness); it was shortlisted for the 2018 The People’s Book Prize (UK); it won a silver medal in the 2018 Nautilus Award (US) for Children’s Illustrated Non-fiction; and in 2017 won a silver medal in the Living Now Awards (US) for a Children’s Picture Book.😀🎉🤩.
Update: I didn’t win, but it still feels great to be shortlisted!
October 31 2019
Secret Science Society Experiments!
The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment is based around… wait for it… a spectacular experiment. Of course, this has whet your appetite for all things sciencey and now you want some activities for yourselves, right? Well, we are happy to oblige. Try out these Secret Science Experiments on the Wombat Books blog page.
October 2 2019
Where the Wild Things Are Bookshop
Thirty five kids, a bunch of parents, invisible writing, and blueberry juice. Josie Montano and I had a great day at Where The Wild Things Are Bookshop.
October 1 2019
A Spectrum Connected masterclass
Treasures, trinkets, music and musings at the State Library of Queensland with some lovely young ladies from the Spectrum Connected Group. This workshop was actually part of the Brisbane Writers Festival program but was held outside of the busy festival week to allow those with autism who find crowds overwhelming to have a quiet session time all of their own.
September 27-28 2019
Wombat Books Professional Development Day and Conference
What do you call a group of Wombats? A wisdom! How appropriate for an amazing weekend of sharing and socialising and networking at the appropriately named Fiction Bar in Cleveland. I’ve known many of the Wombat bunch by name for ages and it was a treat to finally get to know them person. I enjoyed my panel with Josie Montano, Cecily Paterson and Katrina Roe on Social Issues in books. Kate Forsyth’s session was so inspirational that I have now signed up for her workshop at genre.con. I also was enlightened by listening to Kat Colmer’s wisdom on what librarians are looking for in books. Likewise I gained a lot from hearing Rosanne Hawke, Kate Forsyth, Deborah Kelly and Emily Lighezzolo talk about pitching to publishers. In the past I have made every mistake they mentioned, but it was also good to know I ticked a few of the ”good point” boxes too. Now all inspired, I need to get back to my writing!
September 26 2019
The Mad Hatters Bookshop
Josie Montano and I had a fun session with a bunch of kids at the magical Mad Hatters Bookshop. As a bonus we got to meet the lovely Ann Marie Finn, the illustrator of The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Adventure.
September 3-8 2019
The Brisbane Writers Festival
I had an amazing week presenting to schools, giving an online presentation and delivering a Professional Development session for teachers. But the best bit of all was having a pass to see all the other sessions. The vibe was energetic and exciting and the range of presenters was so vast I only wish I could have cloned myself to get to all the different options! I had done my homework and read heaps of books by the presenting authors so it meant a lot to see them in action. Highlights had to be Ann Weisgarber’s talk on compassion and Jasper Ffordes closing speech which was audacious, absurd, confronting and brilliant. I also loved seeing fellow children and YA authors Sally Rippen, Oliver Phommavanh (Pom-a-van as his Tshirt told us), Karen Foxlee, Jessica Miller, Lili Wilkinson, Jessica Townsend, A.J. Betts, Andrew McDonald, Cal Wilson, James Moloney and John Marsden just to name a few. A huge, huge thank you must go to the volunteers who never seemed to wane and constantly made my life easier, and dare I say lighter, with their ever present smiles.
AUGUST 31 2019
The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment Book Launch
Two authors in dinosaur clothes, an extraordinary cake, an incredible experiment, with fifty people and lots of laughs – that’s what makes a great launch. Thanks Dr Rob the TV Scientist for officially launching the book and for amazing the crowd with sciencey spectacular-ness! And a huge thanks to the Arana Hills Library for hosting.
23 August 2019
Pine Community School Author Visit.
When Josie Montano and I turned up for our author visit to the Pine Community School we were presented with an entire sandpit full of erupting volcanoes covered in dinosaurs! Thanks for making us so welcome!
Here’s what Tina and her students said about the day….
I liked that they took time to listen to our stories, and accepted questions that were really stories, with warmth and interest.
Tina and all at Pine Community School
August 2019
A secret revealed…
Josie Montano and I had a blast revealing ‘The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Adventure’ at the Queensland Museum on August 10. 
August 2019
A secret revealed…
The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment will soon be a secret no longer. It is due for release on 10 August 2019. My co-author Josie Montano and I will be revealing the book at the Queensland Museum that day at 7pm.
April 2019
Some busy months coming up…
I have a busy few months coming up with the launch of my new book that I co-wrote with Josie Montano – The Secret Science Society’s Spectacular Experiment. I will be visiting schools and attending festivals.
Here is an outline of where I will be.
Friday 23 August, 2019: Pine Community School
From September 3-8, 2019: I will be very involved at the Brisbane Writers Festival. Here are links to my sessions
Tuesday, September 3, 2019: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM WORD PLAY PRESENTATION The Secret Life of an Author
Thursday September 5, 2019: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM WORD PLAY PRESENTATION The Secret Life of an Author
Friday, September 6, 2019 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM TEACHER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
26 September, 2019: Mad Hatters Bookshop Details TBA
27-29 September, 2019: Wombat Professional Development Conference
2 October, 2019: 11am-12 Where The Wild Things Are Bookshop Details TBA
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April 2019
AEIOU Let’s Get Awesome for Autism Fun Day
Saturday April 26, 2019, 10am-12pm at Kurilpa Point Park, South Brisbane (next to GOMA)
A wonderful FREE day for all the family. I will be selling my books for 15% off and would love to see you.
The family fun day will focus around an activity-filled morning which kicks off with games by our friends at Ginger Sport, as well as a jumping castle, face painting, and food trucks. We’ll move our feet to the beat of Hello Africa, who will bring Kurilpa Park to life with an interactive drumming experience. We’ll also get to touch and appreciate some clever marine creatures, and learn all about them from our good friends at Ocean Life Education. We haven’t forgotten about farm animals, and you’ll have the chance to meet, pet and cuddle some furry friends thanks to Barnyard Babies petting zoo.
March 2019
Omega Writers Book Fair
Saturday March 16, 2019, 10am-2.30pm at the Hills Church, 79 Queens Road, Everton Hills, Queensland, Australia. I will be selling my books in person and would love to see you. Signed copies make great gifts 😊
(PS It was a great day. Here I am sharing my table with the lovely talented, Rhonda Valentine Dixon.)
March 2019
Emirates Airline Festival of Literature in Dubai
The Emirates Literary Festival was amazing. I got to meet so many authors that I admire, plus I met a bunch of new authors that will branch my reading in new directions. Rachel Hamilton was the best moderator ever as not only did she keep me on track, but she also had read all my books and loved them! The Chevron’s Readers Cup was a highlight as I was quizzed by a roomful of teenagers who knew Elemental Island better than I did! Here are some photos from the event…
Isobel Abulhoul Jane Hawking Victoria Aveyard
Ian Rankin Pierce Brown Vince Beiser Kamal Abdel-Malek
Jasper Fforde Ross Montgomery Gillian Cross
Rachel Hamilton 
Mark Huckerby, Tom McLauglin, Nick Ostler Rachel H and Keith Stewart
Jessica Jarlvi and Kim A. Page Jon Burgerman, Ty Tashiro, You Jung Byu
March 2019
Emirates Airline Festival of Literature in Dubai
I am very excited to be attending the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature in my old stomping round of Dubai. I am presenting a session on my books, plus visiting a local school and I will be involved in the Chevron Readers Cup where my novel, Elemental Island is featured. A highlight for me will be seeing the winners of the Oxford University Press Children’s Writing competition receive their prizes. I have been one of the judges of this competition for almost ten years and I am always excited to launch young writers into their literary careers. If you are around the festival in March, make sure you come and say.
Here’s where I will be:
Sunday 3 March: I am visiting King’s School Al Barsha to present talks to the lower and upper grades. Last time I visited was back in 2015, so this will be a wonderful chance to reconnect to this vibrant community.
Monday 4 March: I will get the chance to see the Chevron’s Readers Cup in action and be there for the prize giving. I will also be interviewed about Elemental Island. I just hope I remember my book as well as the contestants do!
Friday 8 March: At 10am I’ll be chatting with the lovely Rachel Hamilton about my writing with a focus on my neurodiverse books including All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome and All Birds Have Anxiety. Then book signings at 11am. Come and say hi!
Saturday 9 March: At 9.30am I will be attending the prize giving of the Oxford University Press winners. It will be fun to meet the young authors with so much talent and potential.