Today on Meet the Author we’re featuring Angela Toniolo. Angela is a picture book author and qualified teacher. She lives in Australia with her husband, son and cat. When she’s not dreaming up stories inspired by the world around her, she’s making a lot of noise on her drum kit or playing with the cat. Her first picture book, Mavis, the Little Plane Spotter, was inspired by the brave and eager children who volunteered to help the war effort at home during World War II by keeping their eyes on the skies for enemy aircraft.
Where did the inspiration for your latest release come from?
Mavis, The Little Plane Spotter was inspired by a radio interview with a woman who shared her childhood memories of spotting planes in rural New South Wales during World War II. My research led me to the story of Australia’s youngest World War II plane spotter, and that’s when I knew I’d found the perfect character for a picture book.
Why would its message resonate with readers?
When I’ve talked about the story behind Mavis, The Little Plane Spotter, I’ve been deeply touched by people’s willingness to share their families’ experiences during World War II. I know the topic of conflict can be upsetting, but Mavis, The Little Plane Spotter also promotes resilience, community and volunteerism. It’s my hope that these themes resonate with readers long after they close the cover.
What types of books do you write?
I enjoy writing picture books, junior fiction and middle-grade novels. I also love researching and writing articles for The School Magazine.
When did you start writing?
It sounds cliched, but I’ve always been a writer. I was a journalist for my local newspaper and for many years wrote grant proposals for not-for-profit community groups. I began writing children's books seriously in 2020.
What were some of your favourite books growing up?
In primary school, I loved anything and everything by Enid Blyton. I also loved reading series such as The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Trixie Belden and The Famous Five. Archie Comics were a huge favourite, and I also loved non-fiction books about strange unsolved mysteries, such as the Bermuda Triangle, ghosts and monsters.
What genres do you read?
My favourite genres are biographies, autobiographies and crime. I can have four or five books on the go at once! For research, I also read stacks of picture books, junior fiction and middle-grade novels.
What advice would you give to writers just starting out?
When I started writing for children, I soon learnt the importance of connecting with other authors, honing my craft and understanding the publishing industry. Do courses, enter competitions, go to launches, attend events and listen to podcasts—do whatever you can manage to help you on your journey to publication.
Share three things that people may not already know about you.
I ran my own clothing business, I managed a bookshop and I was the world’s worst waitress!
Find out more about Mavis, the Little Plane Spotter here: https://wombatrhiza.com.au/mavis-the-little-plane-spotter
You can follow Angelia on her website or social media here:
https://angelatoniolo.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelatoniolowriter/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atoniolowriter