Best known for her 1983 classic Possum Magic, Fox has since written more than 40 children’s books and several non-fiction works for adults. 

Wednesday’s presentation will focus on Mem Fox as a writer, offering insights into what it takes to become one of Australia’s most successful authors. 

Vice president of Early Childhood Educators Tasmania (ECET) North, Becca Biggs, said the event came about following a talk Fox gave in Devonport last year.

“We as child educators, were very inspired by the people who got her [Fox] there and by what she had to say,” she said.

“She spoke about her experiences with her premature grandchild, which is something that really resonated with me.

“After that we just thought, what can we do to get her to speak here in Launceston.” 

Mem is a retired Associate Professor of Literacy Studies at Flinders University where she taught for 24 years, receiving numerous awards including three honorary doctorates.

Unlike her previous talks which usually focus on the importance of reading to children, Ms Biggs said Wednesday’s presentation will focus more on the name behind the stories. 

“This is an event for educators, parents, writers and all those interested in children’s literature,” she said. 

Mem’s presentation will begin at 7pm, with tickets available for $25 at Trybooking or via the ECET Facebook page.