JONATHAN HARLEN
Jonathan Harlen lives in northern NSW with his wife and far too many children. He was born in New Zealand, and still supports the All Blacks, except when they lose. He has published more than 20 novels for children and adults, including the widely-acclaimed, best-selling comedy The Cockroach War.

His other comedies, including Brain Scam, Circus Berzerkus, Drop Dead Mad Dog Fred and the forthcoming Ziggy & The Plugfish (all Allen & Unwin) confirm him as an imaginative, heart-warming, and high-spirited writer for ages 9-13, in the tradition of Roald Dahl.

Jonathan previously worked as a radio comedian, and his performances are guaranteed to make kids laugh as well as think. He is accomplished at running workshops for primary students, and he has also developed a highly successful range of workshops for senior students, yrs 9-12, looking at short story writing and exactly what can be achieved in 600 to 2000 words.

Feedback from school visits in 2004:

'Students were unanimously enthusiastic!'
'Captivating and worthwhile.'
'The boys enjoyed listening to his stories and were keen to ask questions.'
'The writing workshop was excellent and the boys gained much valuable advice and strategies which they could use in their own writing. A very hands-on workshop - 3 star rating!'
'Jonathan is an expert storyteller who has good audience control.'

Click here for a list of Jonathan's published books

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