• Why did you want to be a writer?

It’s the way I best communicate and helps me to unravel all the issues that concern me.

• What’s the best thing about being a writer?

Sharing ideas and experiences with readers – and researching lots of things that fascinate me. I also have to add the magical way that my sub-conscious can deliver up thoughts and images that I didn’t know were in my head until they suddenly present themselves!

• What’s your favourite New Zealand book? 

Shonaugh Koea’s ‘Sing to me, Dreamer.’

• What do you love most about New Zealand?

The dry, understated kiwi humour. The environment. What Māori culture has gifted to us all.

• What do you love most about libraries?

They allow anyone who can read, listen or interpret pictures to enter new worlds through shared stories and knowledge.

Mandy Hager is an award-winning author who has written novels for young adults and adults, non-fiction resources for youth, scripts and short stories.  Her books include Smashed, the Blood of the Lamb Trilogy, and her most recent book, Nature of Ash.