Writing, reading and giving back - R.A. Spratt's literacy advocacy
R.A. Spratt has a knack for making young readers laugh, think and fall in love with stories. She has created beloved series, such as Friday Barnes, Girl Detective and The Adventures of Nanny Piggins. She is also the author of Epically Good Greek Myths (March 2025), which is based on stories from the podcast Bedtime Stories with R.A. Spratt.
Beyond her books and podcasting, Spratt is making a real difference by supporting children’s access to books through her work with Dymocks Children’s Charities.
Creating memorable experiences
Spratt’s journey into charity work began with an invitation that turned into a passion. “Dymocks asked me to be a speaker in the Great Debate. It was a lot of fun. At the dinner, I saw all their presentations about the reach of their literacy programs and the way they help schools. I was excited to get involved.”
Dymocks Children’s Charities is an independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving literacy outcomes for disadvantaged children across Australia. Spratt actively supports their mission to provide books and resources to young readers across Australia, ensuring that children from all backgrounds can develop a love for reading.
One of the highlights of Spratt’s involvement with literacy advocacy is connecting with children in regional areas. “Dymocks Children’s Charities organised a children’s literature festival in Port Macquarie so that all the local schools could bring their students to the university campus to hear five different children’s authors talk about their work. It was a lot of fun,” she recalls.
A particularly memorable moment came when students kept requesting readings from her more serious book Hamlet is Not OK. “Three sessions in a row, the kids voted for it. I thought that it was wonderful that these primary school aged children – a lot of them from tiny regional schools – were curious about Shakespeare. He lived 500 years ago on the other side of the planet, but they were intrigued to find out what he was about.”
Overcoming doubt and staying motivated
Even for a seasoned writer, moments of doubt can arise. For Spratt, the solution is chocolate. “I know it sounds silly, but it is just a biological fact that chocolate cheers you up, and the sugar gets your brain fired up,” she explains.
Beyond sweet treats, her approach to tackling big goals is rooted in practical strategy. “Writing books is surprisingly similar to distance running. You need to focus on what is right in front of you and do that. If you focus on the ultimate goal that is too much, you need to break it down. If you write 5,000 words a week for eight weeks, you will have a 40,000-word book. Baby steps.”
This philosophy has carried her through multiple books and projects, proving that persistence and incremental progress lead to significant achievements. And for those struggling to find motivation, Spratt’s advice is straightforward.
“Do not think about your motivation levels – just do it. Every day. Chip away at your work regardless of how you feel. Do not worry about doing a bad job. Do a bad job and fix it later.” And if all else fails, “Eat some chocolate and try again.”
Lessons for success and creativity
As an author, Spratt is naturally an avid reader and loves books that inspire. Among her personal favourites is The Barchester Towers chronicles by Anthony Trollope. “I love his writing style and his empathy,” she says. “But most people asking for book recommendations from me are children, so I always recommend Hating Alison Ashley and Halfway Across the Galaxy and Turn Left, both by Robin Klein. She is a brilliant author who does a beautiful job of combining humour and pathos.”
Through her work with Dymocks Children’s Charities and her writing career, Spratt has shared some great lessons for anyone pursuing creative work or personal goals. She reminds us to take things one step at a time, to embrace progress even if it is slow and to not be afraid of making mistakes.
Most importantly, Spratt encourages everyone to find joy in the journey, seek support and, sometimes, simply eat some chocolate and keep going.