from Aspirational, to professional

by Lydia Roberts

It was a rare scoop when university student Sharnee Rawson landed the role of co-editing Inside Story: the wonderful world of writing, illustrating and publishing children's books.

Published by United Publishers of Armidale (a collaboration between two New England-based boutique publishers, Christmas Press and Little Pink Dog Books), and the New England Writers’ Centre, Inside Story is a one-of-a-kind resource for anyone wanting to know more about the children's publishing industry.​

Sharnee, at work on Inside Story

It is aimed at aspiring young creatives, such as Sharnee, who want to write, illustrate, or edit children’s books and is filled with tips, advice and anecdotes from professionals such as Sophie Masson, Kathy Creamer, Beatty Alvarez and Peter Creamer.

“I had always been eager for involvement in [NEWC], so I was ecstatic when I was hired as an editor for Inside Story,” Sharnee says.

I was ecstatic when I was hired as an editor for Inside Story!

While studying for her Bachelor of Media and Communications (Hons) at The University of New England, Sharnee had taken the job of editor-in-chief at TUNE!FM, the on-campus radio station, to extend her practical writing experience.

From there she decided to join NEWC, which is how she landed the plum job of co-editing Inside Story alongside seasoned editor, Jen Scanlan.

Sharnee started learning more about what NEWC offered, especially for aspiring writers such as herself.

“They run many incredible workshops, and they support emerging creatives throughout the New England area (not just Armidale),” Sharnee, from Grafton, NSW, says.

“Working behind the scenes, I could see how much they cared about their members.

"It was an easy ‘yes’ when considering whether to be a board member [which she became earlier this year].”

Sample storyboard [credit Inside Story]

Sharnee’s latest venture is into the realm of commercial writing, having just taken a role with AMR Hair and Beauty.

“Surprisingly, there’s a lot of overlap between commercial and creative writing,” Sharnee says. “You get to play with the choice and organisation of words, and it’s essential to engage the reader.

“Commercial writing is certainly more restrictive. The word count is shorter and your brief is the law. However, I’ve been loving the experience so far, especially as I’m able to work from home.

“The commercial writing landscape is constantly evolving, and it’s exciting to be involved in the sweeping changes.”

The New England Writers' Centre - full of bright ideas!

Her advice to aspiring writers such as herself is to join an organisation such as NEWC, to engage with mentors, as well as take any opportunity for practical experience in writing.

“Some people will say writing is a ‘wishy washy’ career,” Sharnee says.

“It can certainly be difficult to navigate at first, but I’ve found there is plenty of demand for capable writers and writer-adjacent careers.

“In this new world, be open to a range of experiences and don’t be afraid to diversify. It’s an exciting career when you know how to navigate it."