Vanessa Jane Townsend - Picture Books
What do you write?
I write picture books that celebrate curiosity, courage, compassion, humour and wonder in real life - the kind of stories that help kids see how special the everyday can be.
How do you market your books?
I have a sunny alter ego, Sunny Bloom Petal. She's a joyful storyteller who reminds us that real life is full of wonder...if you look closely.
Do you belong to any writing groups?
I am a proud member of both the New Zealand Society of Authors and Storylines Trust and thrilled to be associated with Behind the Books school visits programme.
Have you been part of any festivals?
Yes, I am part of the 2026 Tamariki Book Festival. I have created vibrant, engaging, and interactive story props relating to my book illustrations, so children can immerse themselves in the fairground setting at events and festivals.
Have you done any formal writing courses?
Yes. I have a NZIBS Diploma in Writing Stories for Children.
Have you been short listed or won any awards?
I have been shortlisted in the Fusilli Writing competition.
What books have you had published?
I have self-published picture book: Emma's Turn at the Fair, a cheeky sibling-centered story about fairness and the courage to find your voice.
What do you like about about Writion?
Author Events: I LOVE the fact that the Packing List can be printed.
Goals: It works really well. I've loaded plenty of goals to bring me up-to-date. I love that when printing them all, we can select to include both projects and goals steps.
Do you have a website? Yes. www.vanessajanetownsend.com
Note: Projects refer to individual and events projects that you can create within Writion