New library talk: Growing up Reading

For the National Year of Reading 2012 (of which I am a supporter) I have developed a new library talk!

From the press release:

“In this talk, Narrelle discusses learning what reading meant to her mother and father, what it was like growing up in a house full of books, and what reading meant to her as a child and as an adult.

After the talk, Narrelle engages the attendees in a discussion of their own experiences of reading, their favourite books and what they have meant (and still mean) to them. It’s an inspirational celebration of the joy of reading.”

Download the press release for more details.

Do you need a speaker for your library, school, club or organisation?

• “If you need a well spoken author who captivates the audience, I highly recommend Narrelle.” –Josie Mitzi, Craigieburn Library.
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  Brunswick Library

• “Narrelle’s talk about her book The Opposite of Life was great – she was a vibrant and interesting speaker who takes an obvious delight in her work and has a lot of fun with it. There was a lot of interaction with the audience, with many great questions being asked. A very worthwhile event.” – Christine Hornby, Community Programs Librarian, Brunswick Library
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• “Narrelle is an inspirational speaker/author who threaded a wonderful tale of discovering a way to develop believable fantasies. Her knowledge of developing her story through geography, her travels and experiences kept the audience totally captivated for over an hour with lots of interesting questions and answers at the end of the session. Definitely worthwhile for those who love writing.” – Judy Cousins, Emerald Library.

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Narrelle M Harris writes both fiction and non-fiction. Her work includes a vampire novel set in Melbourne, a crime novel available in both paperback and as an e-book, two fantasy novels, a true crime essay and short horror stories. Her most recent project is an iPhone application, Melbourne Literary, which is a guide to Melbourne’s literary scene in celebration of Melbourne becoming UNESCO’s second City of Literature.

Narrelle has a background in theatre and public speaking. She speaks at libraries, bookstores and other book events. In 2009, Narrelle was a regular guest on radio show The Outland Institute on Joy 94.9FM, as the show’s book expert. That same year, she was Guest of Honour at Melbourne science fiction convention, Continuum 5.

In 2011, Narrelle has spoken to members of the MEAA and the Australian Society of Authors about e-readers, e-publishing and the creation of applications.

Here are her current talks:

Emerald Library

Growing up Reading – NEW
For the National Year of Reading 2012, Narrelle discusses learning what reading meant to her parents, what it was like growing up in a house full of books, and what reading meant to her as a child and as an adult.

Where do you get your ideas?
Narrelle actually answers one of the tricky questions most frequently asked of writers.

Building believable fantasy worlds
What techniques do writers use to create worlds and characters that the reader can believe in, no matter how fantastical or strange the setting?

The Vampire Metaphor
Narrelle discusses the history of the vampire novel and examines the different metaphors vampires represent in fiction.

Rates

Narrelle’s rate for each talk is $250, which covers a 45-minute talk and an extended question period afterwards.

If you would like to engage Narrelle as a speaker for your library, school or organisation, contact her on 0421 024 474 or narrelle@iwriter.com.au.

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Praise for The Opposite of Life
(distributed by Peribo, www.peribo.com.au)

“It’s certainly a most unusual vampire novel. Lissa Wilson [is] a wonderful character; not because she’s an heroic supergirl, but because she rings true. If you can get this book, do.” – Charlaine Harris, author of the Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood novels.

“A well made plot with a killer (literally) ending.” – Kerry Greenwood, author of the Phryne Fisher novels

“Harris shows a deft descriptive touch and an eye for setting… Melissa has the right combination of fragility and sass to carry the story.” – Jason Nahrung, The Courier-Mail (Brisbane)

Praise for Melbourne Literary
(Download from the iTunes app store)

User feedback from iTunes:

“Tons of info to keep you occupied around reader-friendly Melbourne.” – Xoanon42

“Despite living in Melbourne for 30 years and studying Australian Literature at university, I learned more from this app than I did from my formal studies. I love it!” – superpengsheila

“I often find myself, with a few minutes to kill, randomly clicking somebody from the list. It never fails to provide me with that little piece of trivia for the day.” - bridielle