Not just a piece of cake, being an author by Hazel Edwards

Brolga Publishing, 2015. ISBN 9781922175809
Recommended for budding writers, adult fans and anyone who loves to read autobiographies. Memoir by author of best-selling There's a hippopotamus on our roof eating cake and author of over two hundred picture books and novels. Hazel Edwards' writing journey has taken her from Nepal mountaineering with spirited women, walking the Milford Track in New Zealand, to Antarctic adventures. Her approach to life's challenges shows her spirit of adventure and her passionate desire to encourage readers from a very young age. She loves to share her love of literature with all ages.
What a delight to read all the humorous hippo antics and adventures. Imagine being stopped by the police with a large stuffed toy hippo strapped in the passenger seat. Many little grubby hands cuddling the animal have required some very ingenious cleaning solutions. Hazel's one hundred random hippo memories are funny, poignant and show just how much the character is loved around the world. A country mum learnt to read sharing them with her Prep child whilst the Australian Government gifted a set of books to Princess Mary on the birth of her daughter. These much-loved books printed in Braille, shared in Auslan, became plays and even a film.
An important part of her writing career is publicity, packed days sharing her stories with parents and toddlers, kindergartens and primary and secondary schools. The carefully planned days are filled with author talks, book signings, question time - just how much does an author earn, and creative writing sessions. Book Week is one of the busiest times of the year, a logistical challenge, sometimes a navigational dilemma as well. Losing her voice is a common occurrence and Hazel even provides tips to soothe a sore throat - bananas perhaps.
This autobiography is an enjoyable read and provides motivation and gives insight into the life of a busy author.
Rhyllis Bignell