The first book by Ipswich resident and UQ Contemporary Studies graduate Toni Risson will be launched at The University of Queensland Ipswich Campus next week.
Supported by University of Queensland Press, Licking Lizards will be launched by acclaimed Australian author Anita Bell and Ms Risson in the UQ Ipswich Library, Building 8 on Monday, 4 July 4.
Young adult fiction written with eight to 14-year-olds in mind, Licking Lizards traces the adventures of Luke and Alex, whose neighbouring homes back onto a river. Their adventures heighten when members of their local football team start disappearing and the boys link the disappearance to a menacing man seen at the river in the middle of the night.
The story unfolds to one of intrigue and excitement as the boys unravel the mystery of the missing footballers.
As the eldest of four children, and now also a mother of four, Toni Risson has been the chief architect of many family cubbies and understands children’s need of their own small spaces.
Both as a teacher and a full-time mother, she has fostered children’s creativity and imagination and instilled a love of stories and language.
She said her inspiration for Licking Lizards came from the backyard adventures of her two sons and their neighbourhood friends, as well as the limited enthusiasm teenage boys displayed for reading books.
“They like simple stores that are interesting, yet quick and easy to read,” Ms Risson said.
“Licking Lizards follows that model; it’s like a contemporary Enid Blyton adventure for boys.”
Licking Lizards will be launched at in the Internal Garden, Building 8, The University of Queensland Ipswich Campus, 11 Salisbury Road, Ipswich from 5pm on July 4. Further information is available by contacting Eliza Kennedy at UQ Press on 3365 2606.
Media Enquiries: Eliza Kennedy at UQ Press (3365 2606) or Loretta Porche UQ Ipswich (3381 1068).
