Monash University Performing Arts Centres

Family Fiesta opens with Gabrielle Wang, Australian Children’s Laureate 2022-23. An incredibly talented artist and gifted writer of over twenty acclaimed books, Gabrielle will be onstage in the Alexander Theatre to present the ideas and inspiration behind her newest novel, Zadie Ma and the Dog Who Chased the Moon.

Zadie Ma has a special talent for telling stories. . . and it seems that some of Zadie’s stories come true. Zadie’s dearest wish is to have a dog of her own and so she starts to write the story of a poor unwanted dog called Jupiter, who’s just waiting to be rescued by a loving girl like Zadie.

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Award-winning author and illustrator born in Melbourne of Chinese heritage, Gabrielle Wang’s stories are a blend of Chinese and Western culture with a touch of fantasy.

Gabrielle’s maternal great-grandfather came to Victoria during the Gold Rush and her father was from Shanghai.

Her first children’s novel, The Garden of Empress Cassia, won the 2002 Aurealis Award, A Ghost in My Suitcase won the 2009 Aurealis Award, and her first young adult novel, Little Paradise received a Highly Commended in the 2011 Prime Minister’s Awards. Gabi created two popular characters Poppy and Pearlie for the highly successful 2011 Our Australian Girl series. Her books include the suspenseful The Beast of Hushing Wood for middle readers, and a sequel to the award-winning A Ghost in my Suitcase, called Ting Ting the Ghosthunter. Zadie Ma and the Dog Who Chased the Moon is her most recent novel.

Following this event there will be a book signing in the foyer with the author.

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Part of Family Fiesta – 29 June – 2 July 2022 – a jam-packed celebration of Australian children’s literature, theatre, art and music for kids 0-12 years old and their families. Tickets + more: https://monash.edu/family-fiesta