Host Ky Garvey interviews author Helen Edwards about her Foreverability Award win for Legend of the Lighthouse Moon, a middle-grade novel featuring a main character with type 1 diabetes set in 1970. Helen shares how her own diagnosis informed the story, the emotional truths that remain the same across eras, and the importance of inclusion in children’s literature.

The conversation explores stigma around diabetes, mental-health challenges, and how books act as mirrors and windows for readers. Helen also describes immersive research trips to lighthouses and shipwreck sites, upcoming projects (including A Light on the Rocks and collaborations with Kate Gordon), and practical advice for emerging historical and magical-historical writers.

Listeners hear about reader responses, the power of representation, and Helen’s passions for music, art, and collaborative writing. The episode celebrates storytelling that blends history, nature, magic, and diverse voices.

Dr Helen Edwards writes diverse stories of nature, magic and history. She is also a freelance writer, mentor and speaker and has a PhD in Psychology. Helen has type 1 diabetes, and lives with anxiety and ADHD. She likes to include characters in her stories who are neurodivergent and/or who live with physical and mental health conditions, out in the world, having adventures. Helen is passionate about inspiring action for our planet and encouraging people to understand how important nature is to all of us. Animals and the environment feature in all her stories. Her debut novel, The Rebels of Mount Buffalo, was published by Riveted Press in 2023. 

https://www.helenedwardswrites.com/

https://www.forevability.org/

https://rivetedpress.com.au/

*Affiliate link

You can purchase a copy of Helen's book 'Legend of the Lighthouse Moon':

https://www.qbd.com.au/legend-of-the-lighthouse-moon/helen-edwards/9781763526013/?a=GARVEY

Totally Lit recieves an affiliate payment from sales using this link which contributes to the costs associated with running the podcast.

Host: Ky Garvey

Theme Song: Claire Houghton

Logo: Tondo Creative - https://www.tondo.com.au/

Production: Aud Pitch - https://www.virtualcreatrix.com/

Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends.  You can also make a contribution at:

www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc. 

I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

SALLY RIPPIN

As the current Australian Children's Laureate (2024-2025), Sally is travelling around the country and internationally to chat about the ways we can share stories and support children who might struggle to read.

https://www.sallyrippin.com/

LIFE WITHOUT BARRIERS - HOOK INTO BOOKS

We have teamed up with Australian authors, children, young people, carers and our Life Without Barriers workforce to provide an annual literacy campaign, Hook into Books™!

Our goal is to create conditions that nurture a love of reading and engage children and young people in care to share and listen to stories.

Hook into Books creates easy access to a range of fantastic books and multimodal literacy opportunities for our community.

Learn more about Hook into Books™ here>.

https://www.lwb.org.au/

Host: Ky Garvey

Theme Song: Claire Houghton

Logo: Tondo Creative - https://www.tondo.com.au/

Production: Mike Garvey

Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends.  You can also make a contribution at:

www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc. 

I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

In memory of Josh Langley - a wonderful contributor to the kidlit community, a fantasic writer and a very special person. You will be missed Josh.

Josh was amongst my very first top ten guests on Totally Lit. I was so grateful for his support for my emerging podcast. 

Special Guest: Totally Lit's host Ky chats with Josh Langley, on his writing career and his Inspiring Kids Program.

www.joshlangley.com.au

www.bigskypublishing.com.au

www.edwinashaw.com.au

Host: Ky Garvey

Theme Song: Claire Houghton

Logo: Tondo Creative - https://www.tondo.com.au/

Production: Aud Pitch - https://www.virtualcreatrix.com/

Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends.  You can also make a contribution at:

www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc. 

I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

Welcome to the latest episode of Totally Lit, where we dive deep into the world of young adult literature with author Catriona McKeown. In this engaging conversation, Catriona shares insights into her recent releases, including the intriguing 'Good Luck and Other Lies', a story about teenagers navigating financial hardships and the ethical quandaries of winning a lottery using AI technology.

Catriona discusses her inspiration from real-world issues like the housing crisis and the impact of AI on education while highlighting diverse characters that resonate with today's youth facing similar challenges. We also explore the creation of 'Riser Shorts', books designed for reluctant readers, addressing neurodiversity with relatable themes and accessible formats.

Tune in as host Ky Garvey and Catriona McKeown discuss the powerful role of literature in reflecting societal issues, the importance of inclusive storytelling, and the journey of crafting stories that connect with the realities of young readers.

Host: Ky Garvey

Theme Song: Claire Houghton

Logo: Tondo Creative - https://www.tondo.com.au/

Production: Aud Pitch - https://www.virtualcreatrix.com/

Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends.  You can also make a contribution at:

www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc. 

I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

Join host Ky Garvey on this episode of Totally Lit as she embarks on a fascinating conversation with author Angie Cui. Explore Angie's journey into the world of children's literature, where maps tell more than just geographical stories. Angie shares the inspirations and challenges behind her latest picture book, 'Our Map,' which follows two curious children who discover a missing country on their maps.

Delve into the creative process of writing for children, the trials of getting published, and the serendipity involved in finding the right illustrator. Plus, Angie's candid thoughts on the highs and lows of the publishing industry and her strategies for navigating a successful career. Whether you're an aspiring author or a devout reader, this episode offers rich insights into the world of storytelling and creativity.

Host: Ky Garvey

Theme Song: Claire Houghton

Logo: Tondo Creative - https://www.tondo.com.au/

Production: Aud Pitch - https://www.virtualcreatrix.com/

Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends.  You can also make a contribution at:

www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc. 

I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

Welcome to another episode of Totally Lit, where we explore the world of reading, writing, and literature. In this episode, host Ky Garvey welcomes Jenny Valentish, journalist and memoir writer. Jenny discusses her latest book, 'The Introvert's Guide to Leaving the House', which offers practical advice for introverts, the socially awkward, and sociophobes alike. 

Solid advice for introverts, awkwards, sociophobes and stand-offishes

At last: a practical and relatable book for introverts, stand-offishs, sociophobes and awkwards. The Introvert’s Guide to Leaving the House is stuffed full of game plans for every excruciating social scenario.

Journalist and reformed sociophobe Jenny Valentish will help you extend your social battery life, tackle fear of judgement, form more meaningful connections, create an online presence that feels comfortable, express more of your body’s own bonding chemicals, hit a party like a SWAT team, nail phone conversations, handle conflict, become a more confident manager and team player, hack public speaking, turn small talk into profound connections, reframe limiting self-beliefs, and navigate the overlap between social anxiety and neurodiversity.

Do we Wary Marys need curing? Of course not. But sometimes we can do with a few aces up our sleeves to navigate social interactions.

Join us as we discuss the challenges introverts face in today's world, especially in the literary industry, where putting oneself out there is often expected. Jenny's candid insights offer hope and practical tips for anyone looking to better navigate social situations while staying true to themselves.

www.jennyvalentish.com

https://www.simonandschuster.com.au/p/affirm-press

Host: Ky Garvey

Theme Song: Claire Houghton

Logo: Tondo Creative - https://www.tondo.com.au/

Production: Mike Garvey

Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends.  You can also make a contribution at:

www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc. 

I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

Welcome to a fascinating episode of Totally Lit, where host Ky Garvey sits down with Rachel Jackson, the creative mind behind the unique 'Solve Your Way' book series for children. This episode dives into how Rachel blends storytelling with interactivity, offering young readers the chance to choose their own adventure. Her books, such as 'Escape from Cuttlefish Cove' and 'Escape from Marigold Manor', are designed to engage children aged eight to twelve with puzzles, riddles, and multiple story endings.

Rachel shares her process of crafting these intricate tales, balancing creativity with meticulous planning, and her goal to foster problem-solving and critical thinking in young minds. Tune in to learn how Rachel’s background as an intelligence analyst informs her writing, and her excitement in seeing young readers explore these adventurous worlds. Whether you're drawn to pirates, detectives, or dragons, this episode reveals the magic behind creating stories that invite children into a world of endless possibilities and fun.

Host: Ky Garvey

Theme Song: Claire Houghton

Logo: Tondo Creative - https://www.tondo.com.au/

Production: Aud Pitch - https://www.virtualcreatrix.com/

Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends.  You can also make a contribution at:

www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc. 

I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

In this episode of "Totally Lit," host Ky Garvey is joined by Danielle Binks, an acclaimed writer, teacher, and literary agent. Danielle shares insights into her latest book, "Six Summers of Tash and Leopold," a middle-grade novel exploring themes of friendship and school anxiety. The conversation delves into the importance of empathy in literature and how stories can build understanding among young readers.

Danielle also discusses her upcoming World War I novel, addressing the ongoing impact of war and the promotion of peace through storytelling. As an ambassador for Chapters for Change, she highlights the power of literacy in transforming lives, particularly in Cambodia, where access to education is paving the way for a brighter future.

The episode blends humor and depth, touching on Danielle's experiences of overcoming technical hiccups with her puppy's help, as well as highlighting the transformative potential of reading. Join Ky and Danielle for a heartfelt discussion that underscores the role of books in fostering empathy and societal change.

In this episode of Totally Lit, host Ky Garvey sits down with Megan Dalla-Camina, founder of the Women Rising company and author of the inspiring book "Women Rising." Megan shares her insight into women's leadership and empowerment, discussing the platforms and movements that strive to help women in their personal and professional lives. With decades of experience in gender diversity and women’s development, Megan offers practical tips for overcoming the challenges women face, emphasizing the importance of self-care, clarity, and small steps towards significant personal growth.

She further delves into her personal experiences of burnout, her strategies for self-recovery, and her dedication to fostering environments where women can thrive. Megan highlights the need for a supportive community and the power of challenging the inner critic to unlock potential and enhance confidence. The episode also covers her progressive Male Allies program designed to build understanding and support among men for the advancement of gender equality.

Tune in to learn more about how Megan's work is revolutionizing women’s roles in society and discover how you can be part of this transformative journey.

Host: Ky Garvey

Theme Song: Claire Houghton

Logo: Tondo Creative - https://www.tondo.com.au/

Production: Aud Pitch - https://www.virtualcreatrix.com/

Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends.  You can also make a contribution at:

www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc. 

I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast

In this episode, we dive into a unique literary journey with debut author Steve MinOn, who talks about his first award-winning novel, 'First Name, Second Name'.

Steve discusses his transition from a copywriter to a novelist, exploring themes of identity, migration, and family disconnection, inspired by his own mixed-race heritage.

The story delves into the lives of two migrant families becoming one in Australia juxtaposed alongside the journey of the central protagonist—a sentient corpse undertaking a nocturnal pilgrimage across Queensland. We explore how this journey reflects Steve's personal experiences and cultural heritage, offering a fresh perspective on the importance of self-identity and family bonds.

Join us as Steve shares his experiences in bringing underrepresented stories to the forefront, balancing humour with melancholy, and shedding light on nuanced cultural narratives within Australian literature.

www.steveminon.com

www,uqp.com.au

Host: Ky Garvey

Theme Song: Claire Houghton

Logo: Tondo Creative - https://www.tondo.com.au/

Production: Mike Garvey

Totally Lit is an independent podcast. You can help support us to continue to chat with wonderful Australian creatives by leaving a review on Itunes or sharing our socials with your friends.  You can also make a contribution at:

www.buymeacoffee.com/Totallylit

For those of you who know me I am kind of a caffeine addict! So you can keep me fueled with caffeine and this will also help with equipment & podcasting platform fees etc. 

I love to interact with our listeners so feel free to say hello either by email or social media:

[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/totallylitpodcast