The Children’s Book Council of Australia remembers John Marsden, beloved author and advocate for young readers. His ability to connect with young readers through his authentic and compelling storytelling has left a lasting impact on Australian literature and education.
Marsden’s writing demonstrated his mastery and comfort at speaking authentically as his teen characters. He wrote real, raw, flawed characters that readers connected with, that gave them a space to step into someone else’s shoes. He respected his audience and never shied away from the complex and challenging. He encouraged young Australians to see themselves as powerful voices in their own stories and agents of change in the world. He always offered hope. He would often sign his readers’ books with the advice: ‘Take risks.’
Marsden was no stranger to the CBCA. His debut novel So Much to Tell You (1987) won the 1988 CBCA Children’s Book of the Year Award: Older Readers. The Rabbits (1998), illustrated by Shaun Tan, won the 1999 award for picture books. There were many Shortlisted and Notable books along the way, including Letters from the Inside, Checkers, Home and Away, and his iconic Tomorrow series.
Marsden was also a passionate educator. His Tye Estate writing camps gave many young writers a place to explore their craft and find their voice. He established the alternative schools Candlebark School (2006) and Alice Miller School (2016) in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges.
Marsden’s enduring legacy is woven into the fabric of Australian children’s literature. The outpouring of sadness, gratitude and love we’ve seen from people of all ages since his death was announced has been a comforting and joyful reminder that this legacy will continue far into the future.
The CBCA honours John Marsden’s remarkable achievements and his unwavering dedication to enriching the lives of young readers. We encourage children and adults alike to revisit his books – or take this opportunity to introduce them to a new reader – and reflect on the profound impact of his stories, and the strength and tenderness of his words.