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WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF

About the Author

I’m A.J. Craven, an author and educator from the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia. A lifelong interest in discovery and creativity first led me into teaching and later into writing stories for children. Over the past decade, I have taught in classrooms across Australia, Asia, and Europe, where the creativity and spirit of my students have been a constant source of inspiration for my writing.My books grow from a blend of teaching, storytelling, and imagination. I strive to create stories that spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage kids to step boldly into new worlds. The way children learn, question, and express themselves in the classroom is at the heart of every tale I write.Beyond teaching and writing, I am a drummer, a music lover, and a traveler who has lived in five countries and explored more than fifty. Each adventure brings new perspectives and experiences that weave into my stories, adding energy and depth to the worlds I create.Please click the Find Out More button to discover further information, including details about some of the professional services I offer.

the Library

Here you can explore the collection of A.J. Craven’s works. The library may be small for now, but it is set to grow with exciting new titles very soon. Click on the book covers to learn more about each one. Fun resources will also be included in the book sections. Don’t forget to follow my socials to catch teases and updates for all upcoming releases.

Online Store

The online store of A.J. Craven can be accessed here:

Please feel free to get in touch using the 'Contact' form for bulk orders. I’m happy to offer discounts for schools, libraries, and bookstores, along with special pricing for classroom sets. I ship worldwide, and if you’re local to the Central Coast, NSW, you’re welcome to reach out before ordering to see if you qualify for free home delivery.

Contact Form

Use this form to get in touch with A.J. Craven.
Every message is welcome and will be personally answered.

Costumes tells the story of Sebastian, a student weighed down by social anxiety and self-doubt. Worried that his new classmates won’t accept him, he discovers a magical costume shop that allows him to try on different identities and explore worlds he never imagined. Through these imaginative adventures, Sebastian begins to realise that the greatest discovery may be learning to accept himself, even when it feels difficult.This fully illustrated first book by A.J. Craven is inspired by a lifelong love of dressing up and a birthday that falls on Halloween. With charming artwork by Tristan Tait, Costumes invites young readers to dive into imaginative worlds while exploring self-identity, confidence, and the courage it takes to face new challenges.Click the book cover to download your digital copy of the book for free. The limited hardcover edition is now available for pre-order at: ajcraven.bigcartel.comPlease click the Resources button to discover a range of accompanying activities and resources.

Santa's Surfboard Sleigh

Santa’s Surfboard Sleigh brings the magic of an Aussie Chrissie to life in a joyful adventure for the whole family. Barbecues, beaches and warm summer sun create the perfect backdrop for a Christmas outing that takes an unexpected turn. When three festive kids see Santa crash land right onto the sand, their day suddenly shifts in a way they never could have imagined.Written by A. J. Craven, Santa’s Surfboard Sleigh reflects his love of playful storytelling and the simple joys of childhood. His books are known for their sense of adventure and heart, giving young readers stories that feel fun, bright and familiar. This Christmas tale carries that same spirit, offering a warm, memorable read families can return to each year.The book is illustrated by Tristan Tait, whose lively, expressive artwork captures the colour and energy of an Australian summer. Tristan has worked on close to thirty published books across Australia and overseas, including projects with creators like Darryl McDaniels of Run-DMC. His illustrations in Santa’s Surfboard Sleigh lift every moment off the page and perfectly match the story’s rhythm and charm.Santa’s Surfboard Sleigh celebrates the warmth and spirit of an Australian Christmas. With its sing song flow, vibrant imagery and fun-filled adventure, it’s a picture book that invites young readers to dive in, laugh along and experience the magic of the season in a way that feels close to home.Best suited for ages 3 to 8, perfect for reading aloud or early independent readers.Santa’s Surfboard Sleigh will be released on December 7, 2025 in hardcover and digital formats. Pre-order your copy of the hardcover edition now so it’s ready to unwrap this Christmas here:
A.J. Craven's Official Webstore

Find out more

Author Visits

A.J. Craven's World

Resources

Take a look at the resources below and find the ones that inspire you. Each one has a short description underneath so you know what it’s all about. Just click the image to instantly download the PDF and enjoy using it at home, in the classroom, or anywhere you like.This page will be updated regularly with more content, so please check back soon.

Mindfulness colouring in activity. Colour, relax, and focus your mind.

Coming Soon

Coming Soon

A.J. CRAVEN'S WORLD

Something exciting is brewing here.What exactly, you wonder?Well, I guess you'll have to come back soon and find out!

Author Visits

School Visits
Interactive readings, performances, and creative workshops designed to fit classroom learning and inspire both students and teachers.Library Visits
Story-filled sessions with readings, activities, and performances that spark imagination and a love of books.Gallery
A peek behind the curtain with photos that capture the magic of visits, workshops, and events in action.

School Visits

Bring stories to life in your school with interactive sessions designed to inspire, engage, and spark creativity. Every visit is flexible. I can create a program that suits your students, teachers, and school community. Whether in Australia or worldwide, I draw on over a decade of teaching experience across both the Australian Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme.Some of what I can offer:

  • Book readings and live performances with optional projected visuals, live music, and student participation.

  • Interactive Q&A sessions where students discover more about writing, books, and the author journey.

  • Library and literacy activities that connect stories to creative writing, adaptable for any primary grade.

  • Curriculum-linked workshops designed to meet your school’s learning goals.

  • Creative writing sessions for students to explore ideas, characters, and storytelling in fun, hands-on ways.

  • Professional development workshops for teachers with practical strategies to inspire creativity and storytelling in the classroom.

Discounted rates are available for bulk book orders, which can be shipped directly to your school ahead of the visit. Please use the contact links above to start planning a visit that works for your school.

Library Visits

Bring stories to life in your library with interactive sessions that engage children of all ages. Each visit is flexible and can be tailored to your space and audience, whether you want performances, hands-on activities, or creative play. Sessions can include projected visuals, readings from the book, or storytelling with props to make every story memorable.Some of what I can offer:

  • Live readings and performances that invite children to join in and interact.

  • Creative activities that connect stories to hands-on fun and imagination.

  • Flexible formats including visuals, props, or traditional book readings.

  • A copy of the book for your library is included with every visit, so your collection can enjoy the story long after the session ends.

Please use the contact form or email link above to plan a visit that brings the stories of A.J. Craven to life.