Every book is different. 
Good Possum evolved from my poor Dad. He has a huge mango tree that disappoints him every year with a lack of mangoes, and he spends most of the time fighting for his share with the flying foxes. Swap out the flying foxes for a cute little possum and you've got yourself a story premise.

Once again, every story takes its own time.
I do spend days or even weeks thinking about a story and scribbling notes before I begin writing. So, by the time my fingers hit the keyboard, I know the story and the characters well. 

It all started around September 2020 when I decided to write a story for my son. What was originally a simple Christmas gift, became so much more. It was also a gift to myself. I discovered a joy and creativity I had never known. 

Chaotic. I think about a story constantly until it's finished. I can barely eat or sleep when I am in the throes of writing. 
I never write from start to finish. For some reason I often write the ending first, perhaps so I know where I'm going. Then I fill in the parts of the story I feel inspired to write. At some point I start at the beginning and work my way through to the finish, filling in the gaps as I go.

Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no.
The little boy in Wild is based on my children who are forever bringing animals into our home - be it grasshoppers, snails, lizards or frogs. In fact, as I was writing Wild, I remember my youngest son standing beside me and opening his little hands to show me an almost lifeless moth. I still remember him whispering 'I love it.'

If I could pick anyone it would be Libby Gleeson, or perhaps Margaret Wild. They have a beautiful way with words.

Ouch. This is a difficult one. 
I discovered my love of writing while writing a story for my son, however, it was during Good Possum I realised I was becoming a writer. Good Possum also takes me to a cozy, feel-good place - and I love that. I love that possum.

Anywhere. Anytime. The most important thing is quiet - so I can think. No easy feat with four young kids.

Ok, let's just get it out there. I like broccoli. Yep. Sorry, not sorry. I love it. Love it. Love it.

I believe the closest things to magic are fireworks and microwaves.

I am very good at going cross-eyed, especially when my kids are talking to me.

If I had to change my name I would change it to Anastasia Prohopenburger and I would only answer to Anastasia Prohopenburger, then I would sleep all day because no one would be able to call out Anastasia Prohopenburger.

If I could discover the absolute truth to one question it would be: Who on earth decided that a 'fear of big words' should be called 'Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia.'

My favourite Dr. Suess quote is: The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.

​But the thing I love MOST is having fun with the fam bam.