Alison Lloyd loves history and stories. Her writing and presentations contain a strong element of both.
Several of her books have been shortlisted for Children’s Book Council and children’s choice awards, including Wicked Warriors and Evil Emperors, and Do You Dare? The Bushranger’s Boys, 1841. She also wrote the Letty books for the widely-loved Our Australian Girl series. She is working on an Upside-down History of Down-Under.
Before writing for children, Alison studied in China, and worked for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Alison’s own story is a real-life example of the diverse places and careers that learning a language can lead students into.
Alison can do presentations either on Australian or Chinese History.
Chinese History: Based on Wicked Warriors and Evil Emperors and Dragons, Devils and Rebels, students learn about two of China’s iconic rulers – the first Emperor and the last Empress. For younger students she incorporates Chinese fables. They participate in a lively and fun re-enactment of historical events, using props and costumes. Alison speaks Mandarin and incorporates some key Chinese words and customs, as she brings to life some of the personalities, conflicts and culture of imperial China.
Australian History: Based on the Letty series, the Bushranger’s Boys and the Upside-down History of Downunder, Alison takes students back to the days of colonial Australia. Through stories, slides and dress-ups, students discover what life was like then and how we became a nation.
Alison’s presentations can be extended into creative classes that engage students in their own writing, including narrative, poetry and Chinese calligraphy.
“Many thanks for arranging the Alison Lloyd visit to Wesley College during Children’s Book Week. The children had a great time, it was engaging, entertaining and informative and the re-enactment was definitely the highlight.”
Wesley College, VIC