The Kids’ Cancer Project is proud to announce an outstanding panel of authors, illustrators, educators and publishing professionals who will judge this year’s Write a Book in a Day competition.
As Australia’s largest collaborative student writing challenge, Write a Book in a Day brings together over 10,000 students from primary and secondary schools across the country to write, illustrate and publish an original book in just 12 hours – all while raising vital funds for childhood cancer research.
With entries from schools spanning metropolitan, regional, public, private and independent communities, a strong and experienced judging panel plays a critical role in recognising the creativity, teamwork and storytelling talent displayed by participants.
Write a Book in a Day officially opened on 1 May, with teams able to choose any day from 1 June until 30 September to complete their challenge. Judging will take place throughout October, with winning books announced in early November.
Kimberley Chapple, Head of Campaigns at The Kids’ Cancer Project, said the calibre of this year’s judging panel reflects the continued growth and impact of the competition.
“Every year we’re blown away by the creativity, dedication and passion students bring to Write a Book in a Day, and 2026 is shaping up to be our biggest and best year yet,” she said. “The quality of our judging panel reflects just how significant this program is. Having some of Australia’s most respected authors, illustrators and publishing professionals volunteer their time and expertise not only elevates the competition but also gives students the incredible opportunity to have their work reviewed by leaders in children’s literature.”
Students and schools can register now and begin planning their writing day, joining a nationwide community of young storytellers helping to fund vital childhood cancer research while creating stories that showcase the power of imagination.
Every page written and dollar raised will help bring us closer to better treatments, improved outcomes and brighter futures for children diagnosed with cancer.
Meet our 2026 Write a Book in a Day judges
Angus Olsen
Angus Olsen is a former Disney animator and the 2024 NSW Local Hero whose artwork was inspired by his daughter’s childhood cancer journey. He now creates free books and resources that support childhood cancer families worldwide while championing vital research and raising awareness.
Annaleise Byrd
Annaleise Byrd is an Australian children’s author who writes funny, imaginative stories that spark creativity and laughter. She is also a teacher-librarian advocate and volunteers with the Children’s Book Council of Australia to encourage young readers.
Chloe Mauger
Chloe Mauger is a lifelong school librarian and passionate advocate for children’s literature with decades of experience supporting young readers. She has judged prestigious book awards, reviewed children’s books and serves on the Children’s Book Council of Australia (WA Branch).
Judith Rossell
Judith Rossell is a multi-award-winning Australian author and illustrator celebrated for her bestselling middle-grade novels and beautifully illustrated books. Her imaginative stories have captivated readers around the world and been translated into more than 20 languages.
Marita Smith
Marita Smith is an Australian author and editor whose stories celebrate science, the environment and diverse voices. She is passionate about inspiring young readers through imaginative storytelling and her work supporting writers and the literary community.
Margot Lindgren
Margot Lindgren is a former teacher-librarian and passionate children’s literature advocate with decades of experience promoting books and reading. She is National Secretary of IBBY Australia and volunteers to help bring the joy of books to children in hospital.
Mick Elliott
Mick Elliott is an award-winning author, illustrator and TV producer known for his hilarious, action-packed books that inspire a love of reading. His popular stories and graphic novels combine humour, adventure and unforgettable characters for young readers.
Nat Amoore
Nat Amoore is a bestselling Australian children’s author whose funny, heartwarming stories have earned multiple awards and captivated readers in Australia and around the world. She is passionate about inspiring a love of reading through her books and her work as a literacy advocate.
Samera Kamaleddine
Samera Kamaleddine is an award-winning Australian author and librarian whose heartfelt stories explore friendship, family and finding your place. Her middle-grade novel The Sideways Orbit of Evie Hart was shortlisted for the 2024 CBCA Book of the Year Awards.
Nathan Luff
Nathan Luff is an award-winning Australian children’s author whose funny, adventure-filled books are inspired by his rural upbringing. He is also a primary school teacher, playwright and the YA and Children’s Manager at the Sydney Writers’ Festival.
Will Kostakis
Will Kostakis is an award-winning Australian author best known for his acclaimed young adult novels, including The First Third, The Sidekicks and We Could Be Something. A NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge Ambassador, his stories are celebrated for their humour, heart and authentic characters.