Samantha Wheeler
Samantha Wheeler worked with farmers and taught science before writing her first children’s story in 2011. Her books, such as Smooch & Rose, Wombat Warriors, Mister Cassowary, and Turtle Trackers have been shortlisted for numerous awards, including Everything I’ve Never Said, which was inspired by her youngest daughter, who has Rett Syndrome and can’t talk. Her first picture book, Once I Munched a Mango was published as part of the Queensland State Library’s First 5 Forever initiative, designed to promote literacy in little Queenslanders. When not writing, Samantha enjoys horse riding, dog walking and drinking tea with her donkey.
Samantha hopes her books will inspire everyone to speak up and make a difference.
Author Talks and Writing Workshops
General Author Talk
Samantha shares the real-life inspirations behind her much-loved animal books, and shows how you can use your own experiences to write your own exciting stories. 45-60mins: group size to suit you
Narrative Writing
So, you want to write a story? But the page is blank. Where do you start? How do you finish? Let Samantha help you plan your story so that it starts with a boom, races across the page towards the finish, and comes to a rounded, satisfying end. Become the champion of storytelling in one short workshop that is sure to leave your narrative shining. 60-180 minutes, 30 students max per session
Persuasive Writing
You have something to say, and you’re not afraid to say it? Join Samantha to brainstorm, plan and draft a persuasive argument guaranteed to get results! She’ll cover the use of persuasive techniques, importance of planning paragraphs, and using great transition words to make your writing sing. By the end of this workshop, your argument is sure to grab the attention of anyone who dares to read it. 60 minutes, 30 students max per session
Dialogue
You’re writing a heart racing adventure story and your pencil is nearly flying off the page. Your hero is about to tackle an alien/save the day/win the prize when he says …Oh no! It looks like you could do with some help with that dialogue. Let Samantha show you how to ensure your dialogue adds rather than detracts from your nail biting story. 60 minutes, max 30 students per session
Testimonials
Sam had the children engaged from the beginning. She engaged them in conversation regarding their writing and took them through her experience. The children came away inspired and eager to borrow her books.
St. Peter and Paul's CPS, Bulimba - September, 2024Sam's warm presence was contagious. Her engaging presentation was heartfelt and meaningful. She captivated our students and staff with her stories and knowledge. We would certainly welcome her back to our school in the future.
Oakleigh State School - October, 2023Samantha was a thoroughly well prepared and engaging speaker. The children loved her presentation
Mary Immaculate Primary School - September, 2023Samantha was amazing! She spoke to our year 4's, 5's and 6's. I had the pleasure to sit in on each talk and was very impressed at her ability to adjust her talk for each year level based on age as well as their response to her in the moment. Feed-back from teachers from every year level was really positive and all the students were really engaged. We would 100% recommend Samantha and book her again.
Westside Christian College - September, 2023Samantha Wheeler's Year 5 talk is truly excellent. With her deep understanding of her young audience and her passion for storytelling, Wheeler delivers a talk that resonates and inspires. Her ability to convey important themes and messages in a relatable manner is impressive. Through her engaging and interactive presentation, Wheeler captures the imagination of Year 5 students and encourages them to think critically about the world around them. By weaving education and entertainment seamlessly, she leaves a profound impact on her audience, sparking curiosity and fostering a love for learning. Samantha Wheeler's Year 5 talk exemplifies her commitment to empowering young minds through the power of words and ideas.
Iona College - August, 2023
Everything I've Never Said
Turtle Trackers
Wombat Warriors
Spud and Charli
Smooch and Rose
Mister Cassowary