From a Netflix reboot of a beloved Aussie classic to a national writing comp for young storytellers, the writing world has been busy this week.
BookTok reshapes publishing strategy
If you have been resisting TikTok, you might want to check it out. Although, I warn you that it’s a rabbit hole from which you may never emerge! (Yes, I’m guilty.) Forbes reported on BookTok’s influence at the LA Times Festival of Books including the fact that publishers are now designing marketing campaigns, limited‑edition runs, and even TV/film adaptations based on BookTok trends. This shows how a viral clip can shift publishing priorities – and royalty checks – in real time.
Netflix adapts My Brilliant Career
Last week, I took a nostalgic trip into the days when Judy Davis and Sam Neill looked like babies and watched the original film, My Brilliant Career. Well, it seems that it’s certainly a story that stands the test of time because Netflix has begun filming My Brilliant Career in South Australia. It’s starring Philippa Northeast (The Newsreader, Territory and Home and Away) and Christopher Chung (from Slow Horses) in this modern retelling of Miles Franklin’s 1901 classic.
Writing competition for high schoolers
Do you know a high schooler with writing talent? Australia’s Insight Creative Writing Competition is now open to high‑schoolers, offering $3,000+ in prizes and feedback from acclaimed Australian authors. It’s a golden opportunity for student writers to shine – and be recognised – for their storytelling talent.
If your teenager would love an enrichment program in the world of writing and receive feedback from a successful author, check out the Teenage Creative Writers’ Program.
AI tackles tedious workplace writing
A Grammarly‑commissioned survey of 2,000 workers reveals 62 % want AI to draft emails, meeting notes, and more—freeing them from mundane tasks and empowering corporate communicators. The goal: less repetitive work, more strategic writing.
The report states: “Despite workers already using AI, less than half of respondents’ companies have a clear AI policy (38%). Still, 50% wish their workplace was more willing to embrace AI tools, with Gen Z the most likely to agree (67% vs. 59% of millennials and 45% of Gen X).”
If your workplace wants to use AI ethically and effectively, check out the course Intelligent Business Writing with AI.
The Rose Scott Women Writers Festival
If you’re in Sydney, come say hi at The Rose Scott Women Writers Festival which returns to Sydney from 27–28 June 2025, celebrating women’s voices through panels, performances, and workshops. Named after pioneering writer Rose Scott, the event highlights resilience, creativity, and the power of storytelling. I’ll be there for the event and I can’t wait to catch up with all the fabulous authors in the program.
