Tackling Tough Topics: Christopher Cheng on Addressing Big Themes in Children's Literature with Sensitivity

Christopher Cheng dwells in an inner-city Sydney terrace and writes fiction and non-fiction for children full time. He taught in city and outback schools for a number of years and at Taronga Zoo. He is Co-Chair of the International Advisory Board for the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and has a Master of Arts in Children’s Literature. He presents to people of all ages at schools and festivals worldwide. His many picture books include 'Bear and Rat,' lovingly written for his amazing wife Binni, and illustrated by Stephen Michael King. 'OneTree,' illustrated by Bruce Whatley, shortlisted in the 2020 NSW Premier's Literary Awards, and is a CBCA Notable Book.

In the 166th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short nonfiction for authors, chats to Christopher about: 

• his inspiration to address hard topics and how to approach presenting them in a way that's gentle and age-appropriate for young readers
• balancing complex themes with accessible storytelling, Christopher shares his creative process for developing narratives that resonate emotionally with children while ensuring they feel safe and understood
• feedback received from parents and educators regarding treatment of big themes, and how that has influenced his writing and or future projects
• Christopher's tips and advice to writers looking to write for children and much more.

https://www.chrischeng.com/