Writer and author based in Perth, Western Australia.

About

Laura is an author, writer and poet living in Perth, Western Australia.

A Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) graduate, Laura has a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts, and has worked as a singer, improviser, actor and director.

With over 20 years’ experience managing and delivering children’s programs in paediatric hospitals and the arts sector, Laura is passionate about creativity, play and children’s access to quality literature. She is trained in Infant Mental Health, Early Child Self-Regulation, innovation methodologies and corporate leadership.

Currently working in arts management, Laura is an advocate for the Western Australian cultural sector and for the wider adoption of creative learning pedagogical approaches to education. Laura is an engaging public speaker and facilitator, and she has most recently presented at REMIX Summit, Leading Creative Schools Conference (University of NSW), EduFest WA and the National Gallery of Australia’s Visual Arts Educators Conference.

An author of poetry, short stories, flash fiction and picture books, Laura's work has been published by Hachette Australia, Rhiza Edge, Night Parrot Press and The School Magazine.

News

Love for The Brightest Christmas Star

‘This delightful book is a true gift to the world’ The Australian Women’s Weekly

‘A refreshing take on a story for Christmas . . . Exudes love while acknowledging that families and people celebrate Christmas in their own special ways. This really is a perfect gift for younger readers’ Schooldaysmagazine.com

‘Gentle, rhythmic language . . . stunning illustrations . . . If you’re looking for a Christmas story that feels just right for Australian kids, this book is a perfect choice! It’s a wonderful way to teach kids that love is at the heart of every Christmas celebration, no matter how it looks’ Better Reading

The Brightest Christmas Star now available in the UK both online and in store.

Visit Hachette UK for a list of stockists and to find out more.

Available in Australia now!

The Brightest Christmas Star

by Laura Motherway, illustrated by Deb Hudson

Hachette Australia

ISBN 9780734423085

A little star reflects on the different ways families celebrate being together in this beautifully illustrated bedtime story that captures the magic of Christmas.

As the sun goes down on Christmas Eve, a little star rises up and watches over the celebrations below.

One family hangs a wreath on their door, another plays on the beach, another gives a present to someone who needs it more. The little star shines brighter as they share in the joy and magic of this special night.

A heartwarming, contemporary lullaby for little ones to listen to as they snuggle up at bedtime, The Brightest Christmas Star gently acknowledges that Christmas means different things to different people, but at the heart of it all is love. A perfect gift for baby's first Christmas, or for families seeking a book that reflects the Australian Christmas experience in an inclusive way that doesn't focus on Santa Claus or traditional family structures.