Speaker Profile - Steve Heron

Books that will touch and tickle your heart.

Steve’s passion is to power hope in children, especially through children’s literature. His love of picture books is shown by his extensive collection. He craves to write quality picture books and novels that engage children, at the same time aid them to handle the tricky things in life. He aspires to keep it real and unreal for kids in his books, some for fun, some to stir hope.

Maximus, his first middle-grade novel was published by Serenity Press in early 2018 and is receiving positive reviews. He is currently searching for publishers to pick up his twenty-three picture books and a second middle-grade novel.

·        His first trade-published picture book, ‘Ling Li’s Lantern’ is under contract with Midnight Sun Publishers, due for release in 2020.

·        His picture book ‘Harold the Horrid’ was short listed with 2017 Greenleaf Buds Writing competition.

·        His short story ‘The Money Pouch’ was long listed in the BUZZWords Magazine Short Story competition 2018.

Steve is the founder of Nurture Works Foundation and developed the acclaimed ‘BUZ – Build Up Zone’ social and emotional programs and initiatives used in many schools throughout WA.

In 2016, he was listed in the Queen’s Birthday honours and received an Order of Australia Medal for contribution to the social and emotional wellbeing of children.

His first dabble with writing for children led to a series of six picture books in the ‘Feel Safe Feel Right Series’ published by Nurture Works in 2007.

Author of ‘BUZology’ 2011 and ‘Bullyproofing’ 2013 – books for people working with children.

Steve completed a Diploma of Children’s Writing and Publishing in 2015 with the Australian College. He has recently semi-retired from 40 years of pastoral work with children to focus on his writing.

Steve has extensive experience working with children in schools and is no stranger to doing presentations to kids. He has a positive web and social media platform ready to promote his books and presentations.

A champion of wellbeing for children, he has been called an affirmative vandal and a hooligan of hope.