Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you. 
I’ve moved house over 60 times and have lived in four different countries.

What is your nickname? 
Tan. And I really love it! (Pity I don’t have a nice tan to go with it.)

What is your greatest fear? 
I don’t have many fears at all. Maybe the rapid evaporation of time?

Describe your writing style in ten words. 
I strive for an original, quirky, unique voice that inspires.

Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Dedicated, diverse, original, multi-tasking, kid-centered.

What book character would you be, and why? 
Too many to choose from! Right now, I wish I could be Eloise so I could let loose in the Plaza Hotel in New York.

If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why? 
La Belle Époque in Paris (1871 – 1914) – for the art, literature, music, theatre, beauty, fashion, glamour, scientific discovery – and the peace.

What would your ten-year-old self say to you now? 
I’m so happy you followed my dream.

Who is your greatest influence?
People: too far-reaching to mention. Things: travel, nature, photography, kids.

What/who made you start writing? 
It’s in my blood – my grandfather was a journalist and historical author – and writing is just something I’ve always done. I had my first poem published when I was 8 and from there, I never really stopped. It’s like oxygen to me.

What is your favourite word and why? 
Originality. Because like most precious and rare things, I’m obsessed with it.

If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
The Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis.

 Tania is an author of both adult and children’s books. Her latest titles include Australian Story: An illustrated timeline (NLA Publishing) and Riley and the Grumpy Wombat: a journey around Melbourne (Ford Street). She has three books out in 2013 – Eco Warriors to the Rescue! (NLA), An Aussie Year: twelve months in the life of Australian kids (Exisle) and Riley and the Jumpy Roo: a journey around Canberra. Check out www.taniamccartney.com for more.