“Having a background in research helps me apply methods for gathering and assessing information necessary to ground my work and colour my stories with fascinating historical details.”

“The theme and style of stories are varied, some are close to magic realism, some directly related to Persian folklore and some realistic experience of first-generation migrant life experience in Australia.”

“The story is very much about friendship, and it’s been an interesting parallel that the people I’ve met while writing it have helped me understand what community truly is.”

“By exposing all members to memoir, poetry, screenplay, historical fiction, even musicals etc, our constructive criticism allows all members to develop skills outside their comfort zones owing to the diversity of genres canvassed.”

“I hope that my readers either feel validated and empowered by seeing themselves in my stories; or feel curious about their own assumptions and experiences, to better understand the world of my characters, and feel more connected to them.”

Take a look at the great things you’ve been reading this past year — lots of new work on this list! Go you, supporting each other! And revisiting some old ground with fondness.