Welcome to my website. I’m an Australian author of short stories, poetry and picture books.
I’m based in Adelaide, Australia, although I’m actually from the UK which explains the strange English that sometimes slips into my writing. Or so I’m told.
I have published picture books with Larrikin House and Big Sky Publishing. My short stories appear in anthologies (Thrill Me, Glimmer Press), journals, magazines and on the online reading platform WellRead.
My first poetry manuscript was included in New Poets 20 (an inauspicious debut year) and is widely published in magazines and literary journals, including Griffith Review, Right Now, Kaleidoscope, and Social Alternatives.
I have embedded links to some of my poems and stories within this website. I hope you enjoy reading them.
Alys
Reviews
Hugo’s Runaway Legs …rollicking yarn…The message of being active is one that will likely resonate with caregivers. And the ending ensures kids will be wanting repeat readings. Heather Gallagher, Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA).
Hugo’s Runaway Legs In Hugo’s Runaway Legs, it’s the legs that are the stars. What a beginning! What a funny and fabulous idea to draw attention to an important issue. Our children’s current, sedentary habits due to electronic stimulation, need our attention. This book will get it! Anastasia Gonis, Kids Book Review.
Thrill Me ‘It’s true. There are stories here to make your heart race…and soar and flutter and ache. Some will rip your heart right out.’ Rebekah Clarkson, author of Barking Dogs.
The Land Belongs to Me CBCA SA – Instagram post: A gorgeous book we recommend you add to your collection. Launched today by @jacksonalys local author and poet. ‘The land belongs to me’ Children’s Book Council Awards SA.
‘Who owns our natural world? With a strong, yet simple message we discover the answer in this beautifully-crafted picture book. The story is a thought-provoking delight!’ – Janeen Brian, author of I’m a Dirty Dinosaur.
‘Jackson uses simple but enchanting rhyming language and repetition to tell the story of how greed destroys, but sharing the land can result in peace and abundance for all. It is a timely message, and one that rings true in these times of climate change and the impact of global greed and denial.’ Lynette Washington, Glimmer Press.
For school visits and appearances in South Australia I am represented by Becky’s Literary Bookings.
MEMBERSHIP LINKS
Australia East/New Zealand Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators – SCBWI
Australian Society of Authors – ASA
