Talks

Inspiring talks for any audience.

As an experienced public speaker, Kirsty has addressed audiences at writers festivals, in libraries, universities, conference centres and schools around the world.

In person or online, talks can be for audiences of any size or age group. Sessions can be a ‘meet the author’ or address requested themes. Popular topics include ‘reading like a writer’, ‘writing and research’ and ‘pathways to publication’.

 
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Kirsty Murray's passionate interest in writing, language and creativity is communicated clearly to young people in her workshops and presentations. Kirsty actively engages young people in the creative process and gets the best out of them.

— Mike Shuttleworth, Program Manager, Melbourne Writers Festival

Kirsty Murray is a very skilful presenter. She engages, entertains and educates students as she speaks about her novels, her historic research and the process of writing. She is quick-witted and personable, connecting rapidly with groups of students as well as individual students. She is highly knowledgeable in the area of youth literature and her willingness to share this passion has made her a firm favourite with the students of our Literature Club.

— Julie Purcell, Senior Teacher Librarian, Ruyton Girls’ School

Kirsty Murray gave two energetic, intelligent and inspiring talks that the students really responded to. Her fun, warm and gracious manner endeared her to the audience who have been lining up at lunchtime to borrow her novels.

— Marcia Phillips, Ballarat Grammar
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School Talks & Workshops

Helping students engage with books and the magic of story.

Kirsty inspires students to connect with books and to discover their own strengths as writers. Whether online or in person, Kirsty’s workshops bring out the best in young writers of all abilities.

“Kirsty is a vivacious and engaging speaker who is passionate about literature. Her writing workshops are filled with thought-provoking exercises which enrich that special sense of achievement felt by participants. Kirsty has the ability to moderate her presentations and workshops effectively so as to match the age and interest of her audience. Both students and educators come away from her sessions refreshed and re-engaged with the process of both reading and writing. At the end of her presentation though it is essential to be prepared: everyone wants to read her books!”

— Bev Novak, Head of Library, The King David School

“Feedback on your sessions has been outstanding.  There is no doubt that teachers and students gained a great deal from their participation at your sessions. Indeed, you have given everyone a positive tonic at a difficult time of the year.”

— Charles Morgan, eLearning Design Manager, TATE
 

Writer-In-Residence

In depth engagement and extension

‘Writer-in-residency’ programs give students the chance to deeply engage with the craft of professional writing. Working with staff, Kirsty designs a series of workshops to meet designated outcomes. Over several days (or weeks), students have the opportunity to have all their writing questions answered, work intensively with a professional author and expand their understanding of the written word.

 
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Writers’ Workshops for Adult Writers

Practical, hands-on workshops in how to create engaging literature for young audiences.

Kirsty has taught creative writing to adults in tertiary institutions, libraries, writers’ centres, writers’ festivals and at the Faber Writer Academy. From developing an authentic authorial voice, understanding character, story structure and the editorial process, Kirsty empowers her students to find pathways to publication.

Writers’ Centres, public libraries and other organisations can book Kirsty directly.

Kirsty does not offer personal mentorships unless arranged through a professional organisation.