About Vanessa Hatley-Owen
Vanessa lives way down at the bottom of the world in Auckland, New Zealand; with her husband, their three girls and a crazy Beagle. She grew up with her nose in a book and still loves to read, read, read – there have been occasions where dinner was late because she was too caught up in her book! One of her all-time favourite things to do is browse the shelves in her local bookstores or library; she could spend all day there!
She believes all children deserve to have wonderful books to read. Libraries are an essential part of opening up the world by making sure every child can find these books and develop a love of reading and learning.
When she isn’t working or ‘being Mom’, she writes stories for children – which gives her a great excuse to read even more! So far she has had a Middle Grade novel shortlisted for a New Zealand award for children’s writing, and two Elementary pieces published for schools. Together with a writer friend, Vanessa contributes to KidsWriters, a blog for other children’s writers.
Vanessa’s Quick Interview
What is your favorite book?
I can’t choose an over-all favourite but a recent favourite read was ‘North of Beautiful’ by Justina Chen Headley – a beautifully written YA novel about how a girl comes to see her own value and beauty; it made me cry.
What is your favorite book from childhood?
The Chronicles of Narnia. My copies of these fell apart from being read over and over again – talk about getting lost in your imagination!
What is your favorite thing about the library?
I love that feeling that the world is enclosed in one place and getting to meet other people there who also love books. It is wonderful to know you have access to so many books.
Writings from Vanessa Hatley-Owen
Connect with Vanessa
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