Welcome to Author Services Australia, Frances Mackay, and welcome to our author interviews! If you could start by introducing yourself to everyone, let them know where you’re from and some of your interests and hobbies.
I was born in Tasmania but lived in England for 30 years and returned here in 2015. I was a teacher for 20 years and also had my own educational publishing company for 10 years. I enjoy walking and writing – but not at the same time!
What inspired you to start writing?
I’ve loved writing ever since my Grade 5 teacher, Mr. Shaw, encouraged me to write and make books for our classroom library. I began my professional writing career whilst still teaching in the UK. I started to write articles for the Scholastic magazines, and then they commissioned me to write books for them. I now have over 90 traditionally published books (mainly teacher resource books) as well as 9 self-published children’s books.
What is your preferred genre to write in?
Children’s books – fiction and non-fiction.
What is one thing you wish you knew now that you didn’t know when you started writing?
How to market the books!
What was the hardest part of self-publishing?
Definitely marketing. The writing, creating, and publishing are easy compared to knowing how to reach and excite your target audience. Social media is a two-pronged sword – it makes it easier to communicate with the world, but it’s also difficult to get your message out there amongst the millions of others. I certainly haven’t cracked marketing yet.
Which book is your favorite and why?
My favourite children’s book is Oi Dog because it’s funny – but there are so many amazing children’s books out there today that it’s difficult to choose, and my favourite one keeps changing.
Who are some of your favorite authors?
Children’s authors – Julia Donaldson, Michael Rosen, David Walliams, and Roald Dahl.
Adult authors – Catherine Cookson (Yes, I know! But she tells a good tale), Monica McInerney, Rosamunde Pilcher, Maeve Binchy. I enjoy a good old-fashioned romance with a happy ending!
What are you working on right now?
I have just published my first children’s non-fiction book – Mammals and Birds of Tasmania.
It’s an information book with printable activities for ages 5-10. In researching this book, I discovered lots of Tasmanian animals that I never knew existed – and I was amazed at the number of animals that are only found here in Tassy and nowhere else in the world. I am also working on a counting book on Dogs for toddlers.
How do you handle a bad review?
Best to ignore them! You will never please everyone all the time – and even the very best authors get bad reviews, so it means you are in good company.
What’s next for you as an author?
At 67 years of age, I’m not sure where to go next! I just want to enjoy writing and creating fun books for kids.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Still alive, hopefully!
If you could choose one superpower, what would it be and why?
To heal people. Without good health, you have nothing.
Where is your ultimate holiday destination?
I don’t really have one. When we lived in the UK, it was so easy to travel to Europe and the States – so I’ve already visited many amazing places. However, I’ve not been to New Zealand yet – so that will be next, I think.
What are some of the items on your bucket list?
I don’t really have a bucket list. I’ve seen a lot of the world, set up three successful businesses, and have self-published the picture book I’ve always wanted to do. I guess my main objective is to be healthy and happy – if that can go on a bucket list, then that’s my wish.
Thanks so much for taking the time to do an author interview, Frances Mackay! Please take a minute and check Frances Mackay out on the links below!
If you need any assistance with self-publishing, including ghostwriting, editing, formatting, or cover design, then don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us directly. Our friendly and professional team is always happy to help.
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Author Name: Frances Mackay
Genre/s: Children’s Books
Author Website: https://www.francesmackay.com
Social Media Links: LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Goodreads, X Twitter, and Amazon Author Central.
The best Link to Where People Can Buy Your Book: https://mybook.to/animalsoftasmania
Thank you for giving me the opportunity for this interview!
Hi Frances, no worries at all! It was a pleasure having you for an author interview and learning more about your author life. Best of luck with your latest book!
The interview is an interesting snap shop of Frances’ career. Frances’ books make wonderful gifts for babies and young children. Keep writing and keep marketing.
Thanks Sheree, it really is. I always enjoy getting to know authors, and how they tackle the publishing world, especially Australian authors.