Jemima Parker’s Path to Picture Book Success: Poppy, Pockets & Publishing

Host Ky Garvey chats with Jemima Parker about her debut picture book Poppy Makes Pockets (EK Books), her upcoming titles with EK and Scholastic, and the real-life moments that launched her publishing journey — from open submissions to writing retreats and personal connections. Jemima shares practical tips for aspiring authors, the joy of collaborating with an illustrator, and release details (Poppy Makes Pockets out 14 July, launch at The Book Cow on 25 July). About the book: Poppy loves collecting treasures while out exploring, from smooth stones to glossy feathers and everything in between. But hardly any of her clothes have pockets to carry them! Join Poppy as she sets about solving her pocket-less problem, for herself and the whole neighbourhood. Touching on themes of creativity, fabric upcycling and community, Poppy Makes Pockets will bring a smile to the face of little readers everywhere – and might even inspire some to get crafting themselves. About the author: Jemima Parker has been writing and sewing for as long as she can remember, and is passionate about nurturing creativity in children. She holds a degree in Visual Arts (Textiles) from the Australian National University School of Art and Design, and has exhibited widely throughout Australia and abroad. Poppy Makes Pockets is Jemima’s first picture book. She was inspired to write it by her young nieces, who love to collect treasures but almost never have any pockets to carry them. Inevitably, Jemima ends up carrying a handful of special pebbles, leaves and sticks. She once sewed two large, brightly coloured pockets onto a pair of trousers for her two-year-old niece, so she could carry her own treasures. When Jemima’s not writing, you’ll find her playing with her dogs, practicing yoga or curled up somewhere with a good book. She was born in a small town on Australia’s far-south coast, and now lives in Canberra. Poppy Makes Pockets jemima parker Buy the book: Books | Online Bookshop | QBD (This is an affiliate link) 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]