Jayne McIntyre
Jayne McIntyre is a Sunshine Coast (QLD) author of magical middle-grade books for kids aged 8-13.
Australian settings are at the heart of her whimsical tales, weaving native animals and folklore into modern children’s mysteries.
Jayne holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and works a ‘day job’ in marketing. When she isn’t busy plotting her next twist, you will find her jogging, reading, or spending time with her husband and two children.
Her debut book manuscript, ‘The Feathers of Farwood’ was shortlisted for the 2024 Text Prize and was later picked up by Riveted Press as an exciting new Trilogy!
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Jayne is all about bringing the magic of storytelling ‘beyond the page’ through engaging sessions for a primary-aged audience. Topics include:
- Elements of ‘a good story’ – delving deeper than the beginning, middle and end
- Turning an idea into a book, and how real-life events can inspire narratives
- Fascinating owl facts and local wildlife encounter experiences
- Q&A - about ‘being an author’, the writing journey, worldbuilding techniques, and crafting compelling characters.
While based in South East Queensland, Jayne is available for interstate bookings plus dynamic online presentations. Suited for school settings, libraries, and events.
Publishing History:
Jayne’s debut novel The Feathers of Farwood and The Gripps Curse was published in March 2026 with Riveted Press. The second instalment will take flight in early 2027, with The Feathers of Farwood and The Roaming Wilds. The conclusion to this feathery adventure will be out in 2028.
Talks 45-60 mins
The below talks/presentations can be tailored to suit the audience and venue. Ideal for single classes or multiple groups. Require a screen for the presentation and some interactive elements, depending on space/group size.
A Journey to Farwood: Wings, beaks & magic – For Grade 5-6
- About my book and about the author
- Aussie owl facts - Eastern Barn Owl to the (not-an-owl) Tawny Frogmouth
- Interactive feather identification quiz
- Owl senses – how these stealthy birds of prey view the world and how I incorporated this into my alternating owl POV chapters
- The essential elements of a good story – from the premise and hook, through to crafting compelling characters and why magic systems and magical worlds need ‘rules’ and logic
- The ‘walkthrough’ technique – drawing on your own senses to make a story immersive for the reader
- Author Q&A (ask me your curly owl questions – from gizzards to owl pellets, and if Barking Owls really do bark).
A Journey to Farwood: Wings, beaks & magic – For Grade 3-4
Similar to the above presentation, this talk offers participants insights into the writing process and elements of a story, more suited to the Grade 3-4 age group.
- About my book and about the author
- Aussie owl facts - Eastern Barn Owl to the (not-an-owl) Tawny Frogmouth
- Interactive feather identification quiz
- Owl senses – how they view the world and why perspectives are important
- Elevating your storytelling with ‘touch, taste, smell, sound and sight’
- Natural landscapes that inspire me (mountains, bushland, seaside etc)
- Author Q&A (ask me your curly owl questions – from gizzards to owl pellets, and if Barking Owls really do).
Workshop: (Grade 4-6)
Create Your Own Farwood Character: Let Your Imagination Take Flight!
In this 45–60 minute session, students will use worksheets and prompts to design their very own ‘Gripps’ animal and/or create Gripps posters, inspired by The Feathers of Farwood. This hands-on, creative workshop is suitable for up to 35 participants and works well in classroom or library settings.
Curriculum Links: Australian Curriculum Outcomes – English, Science, Media Arts
Themes: Environment, friendship, family, overcoming obstacles/conflict
Additional Resources: Teaching notes are available for FREE on my website.
Testimonials
The Feathers of Farwood and The Gripps Curse
Queensland
Speaker type
- Author
Audience
- Year 3-6