Barry Jonsberg

Barry Jonsberg is an Australian author and former teacher, originally from Liverpool, England. He holds degrees in English and psychology from Liverpool University. Before relocating to Australia in 1999, Jonsberg worked as a college lecturer in Crewe, Cheshire.

His career as a writer has been marked by significant recognition for his young adult fiction. Several of his books have been shortlisted for prestigious awards, including the Children's Book Council Award, the NSW Premier's Award, and the Queensland Literary Awards. Some of his works have also received special mentions or won awards, such as the South Australian Festival Award for Children's Literature and the Children's Peace Literature Award. Jonsberg's novels often explore themes relevant to young readers, and his consistent output and critical reception highlight his established presence in the literary world.

Barry Jonsberg's contributions to literature, particularly for young adults, have garnered considerable attention and awards. His 2005 novel, "The Whole Business with Kiffo and the Pitbull," achieved a notable distinction by being shortlisted for the Children's Book Council Award in the Older Readers category and also received a special mention in the White Ravens Selection for International Children's and Youth Literature. Further solidifying his reputation, "It's not all about YOU, Calma" was honored with the 2006 South Australian Festival Award for Children's Literature. His work continued to be recognized with "Dreamrider" being shortlisted for the 2007 NSW Premier's Award and "The Dog that Dumped on my Doona" receiving a similar honor at the Territory Read Literature Award in 2008. More recently, "My Life as an Alphabet" earned the 2013 Children's Peace Literature Award for older readers.

The author's recent publications have maintained a strong presence in literary award circles. His 2022 book, "A Little Spark," was a finalist for the Ethel Turner Prize for Young People's Literature at the 2023 New South Wales Premier's Literary Awards. The momentum continued with "Smoke & Mirrors," which was recognized in 2024 by being shortlisted for the Young Adult Book Award at the Queensland Literary Awards. This novel also secured nominations for the 2025 Victorian Premier's Prize for Writing for Young Adults and the Ethel Turner Prize for Young People's Literature. Looking ahead, Jonsberg's 2025 publication, "Darkest Night, Brightest Star," has already received nominations for the Children's Book of the Year Award: Older Readers and the Ethel Turner Prize for Young People's Literature for 2026, indicating sustained critical acclaim.