AUTHOR

Sonia Orchard is a freelance writer and author with a background in classical music, marine biology, teaching (music and environmental education), cooking, scuba-diving and an impressive range of menial jobs that enabled her to travel through thirty-odd countries during her twenties. As a freelance writer, she has written for a range of magazines and publications, including The Age Cheap Eats, Wellbeing, Surfgirl and the Lonely Planet guide books.

In February 2002, Sonia published her first book SOMETHING MORE WONDERFUL (Hodder Headline Australia), a memoir about the year in which her close friend Emma, a single mother, was diagnosed with, and lost her life to cancer. SOMETHING MORE WONDERFUL is a book about courage and compassion, as well as 'a powerful and moving rumination on life and death and the invincibility of love'. The book went into its second print run within weeks of its release, hit 3rd on the national bestseller list for biography, and Sonia has since been busy doing public appearances, workshops and a variety of radio and print media interviews.

Sonia has plenty of experience as a presenter and educator and has taught both children and adults in a range of fields. Her colourful background and diverse interests help enable her to write in a variety of styles, relate well to students and constantly draw upon life experience for her writing and teaching.

"Sonia has a unique ability to make people feel comfortable in their environment, even when they are traditionally out of their comfort zone, and having to read out their written work in front of a crowd."

- Memorable Memoirs, Pakenham Library