Seasons of Story: Jess Galatola on Graphic Novels, Poetry & Family

Jess Galatola joins host Ky Garvey on Totally Lit to discuss her new graphic novel Seasons of Clementine, her upcoming picture book The Witch Who Couldn't Spell, and the impact of her earlier work Some Families Change. They talk about adapting stories into different formats, the role of poetry in her work, teaching tools for classrooms, and parenting through neurodiversity. Jess shares behind-the-scenes insights on writing, workshops, and upcoming projects, including a YA short and another picture book. Tender, funny and full of practical advice for writers and parents, the episode celebrates creativity, resilience and the joy of stories for young readers. All about Jess: As a child, I consumed books faster than my mother could buy them. I loved reading Enid Blyton's, *The Magic Far Away Tree,* every night before bed.   I have always loved storytelling and creative writing, and I wrote my first award-winning picture book in Grade Two, 'Magical Hopscotch' (those were the days)! Today, I'm excited to be manifesting my favourite things: writing children's books and reading them before bed, with my own children. With over ten years of experience as a Drama/English teacher and Curriculum Leader, I found great fulfilment in teaching Drama and bringing stories to life on the stage, as a director of school musicals.  I have always loved storytelling, no matter what the format. Whether it was the dorky radio stations I recorded (on tape) as a child, or the poems I recited at the Speech and Drama competitions my mother dragged me along to ... I was telling stories.  I'm passionate about writing stories from the heart, promoting early literacy, and a love of reading. I want every child to see themselves and their understanding of the world through the pages of a picture book. About Me Seasons of Clementine — Perentie Press The Witch Who Couldn't Spell 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: [Totallylitpodcast@gmail.com](mailto:Totallylitpodcast@gmail.com)