As Book Week celebrates the power of stories, local authors continue to inspire young minds, encouraging creativity, empathy, and the joy of reading.
Gazette journalist Afraa Kori speaks with one author whose latest book sparks imagination and resilience in children.
“No matter who you are, you can be the voice of change and advocate for a fairer world,” said the author.
Local author, educator, and wellbeing coach Kelly celebrated the launch of her seventh book, Operation I.G. (Operation Imagination Glasses), at St Patrick’s Primary School on August 12.
Released during Book Week, the junior fiction novel encourages children to become their own superheroes by harnessing the power of imagination.
“You can come from anywhere, be anyone, in any circumstance,” Kelly said.
“Understanding the power of your imagination can help your wellbeing and help you navigate any situation. It’s about empowering kids to understand the power of their own minds.”
The launch also highlighted Kelly’s work in the school’s wellbeing program and featured her therapy dog, creating a memorable and interactive experience for students. Operation I.G. was particularly relevant to the school’s diverse student body.
“Around 72 per cent of students are refugees. It’s opened my eyes to the struggles new Australians face,” Kelly said.
“We’ve made this book as diverse and inclusive as possible, so it can resonate with many kids and families.
“I wanted to share it with those kids first before anyone else, because I’ll be around the state next week and didn’t want my own little cohort of kids to miss out.”
Operation I.G. is “just the beginning,” with a five-book series in the works.
“We’re about to sign a deal for a five-book series, which is really exciting, Kelly said.
“We’re going to take Reggie, the young girl in the book, through lots of different scenarios that kids will be able to relate to and feel empowered by.”
As part of Book Week, Kelly will tour schools across Victoria, visiting Gippsland, Ballarat, Bendigo, and Melbourne.
The community’s support has made the launch of Operation I.G. even more special, with local residents and the school celebrating the achievement.
“I live in Upper Beaconsfield, and from the beginning, the whole town has rallied around what I’m doing. Even St Patrick’s has been incredible with their support,” Kelly said.
“Over time, that support has just grown broader and I’ve literally been blown away. I feel incredibly grateful I was brave enough to step out and do it. This is exactly what I’ve always wanted.”
She hopes her books leave a lasting impact. “I want my books to leave a legacy—that no matter who you are, you can be the voice of change and advocate for a fairer world,” Kelly said.
“Everyone can make a difference in their own way, despite personal limitations. I want to teach every young person or anyone that we all have the capacity to make this world better and be the best version of ourselves.”
Reflecting on her seven books, Kelly’s writing has grown with the support of a full literary team and mentorship from experienced authors.
She also engages with students and women’s groups through workshops, combining inspiration and life coaching alongside her books.
With 30 years in education, Kelly retired from teaching in 2018 to focus on writing but quickly realised her passion for wellbeing drew her back. She now works at St Patrick’s, specialising in mental health and wellbeing, alongside her therapy dog. Through her business, Wings for Grace, she delivers emotional coaching and mindfulness programs to young people.
Her personal challenges inspired her mission to equip young people with the tools to protect their mental wellbeing.
Her novels often tackle real-world issues but remain uplifting, showing that “despite adversity, you can triumph. Everyone’s got a story, but I pride myself on telling the stories perhaps some of the quieter voices can’t tell.”
Kelly has had a distinguished career as a Primary School Educator and Literacy Specialist, teaching across all year levels. She continues to work as an author, educational consultant, and wellbeing coach, speaking at schools, community events, and private sessions.
In 2024, Kelly qualified with Therapy Dogs Australia alongside Zali as a therapy dog and handler team. Together, they provide interactive, engaging, and memorable experiences for audiences of all ages.
Kelly is a successful children’s and thriller novelist. Her picture books include Lady Lulu (Children’s Book Council of Australia Awards 2023 nominee) and Hudson Houdini Escapologist Extraordinaire.
Her thriller novels—Breathe Grace (Miles Franklin 2023 nominee, two NSW Premier’s Literacy Awards 2023), The Shadows in My Mind, Where the Driftwood Meets the Sand, and Fragmented—are available worldwide.
Alongside the launch of her latest picture book, Operation I.G, this month, she is currently working on her fifth thriller, Vita Mia, due for release in 2025.
Connect with the Kelly Wilson via https://www.wingsforgrace.com/
