Wellington’s self-publisher Peta Wilson has just released her first book “A New Crown” and plans to release her second before Anzac Day next year.
BY LUCY KEIRLE
LOCAL FIRST-TIME author Peta Wilson has recently self-published her debut title, A New Crown, a story inspired by her grandmother Joyce Abra. The picture-book featuring beautiful illustrations by Caroline Keys perfectly encapsulates rural life, growing up in a large family, and the power of resilience.
Peta has lived in Wellington for close to 30 years, but grew up on a cattle grazing property at Barraba. As her father (Tony Abra) was a police officer, she has also lived in cities as well as the coast. The mother of three, Peta is an educator, and now, she says, an author.
The story is about a young girl with 11 siblings, and it’s their story — much of which was inspired by grandmother Joyce and her memories of those childhood years with her brothers and sisters. From stories told by Joyce, Peta set out to write a heart-warming country tale about family, love, and honouring the past.
“I’ve always had a love of storytelling and capturing memories, and now I get to do that through books,” Peta said. The story captures the essence of country life — it’s warm, nostalgic, and full of love and resilience.
“Joyce lived until almost 102, and many of the small details in the story are drawn from the memories she shared about her childhood. Writing the book was my way of honouring her legacy, and the strong family bonds that shaped her life.”
Peta’s work with children has helped her write in a way that is simple, heartfelt, and meaningful for young readers. “It’s taught me how powerful a few well-chosen words can be, especially when they speak to emotion, family, or imagination,” she said.
A major lesson she learnt from her writing process was that taking small, slow steps were still progress. “I started writing down memories on the day Joyce passed away, and it quickly began to form the bones of a story,” Peta said. “Although I started writing in April 2022, I was determined to finish what I began — to honour her and her 11 siblings. Sadly, Clare, the youngest sibling, was the only one still with us to see the finished book. But with such a large extended family to share it with, I’m incredibly proud to have brought it to life,” she said.
“It’s a moment that’s very close to my heart and once again inspired by family and the town of Barraba. I come from a long line of military service, and I wanted to honour that legacy. While there are many beautiful children’s books about ANZAC Day, I felt the emotion and atmosphere of the dawn service specifically was missing. I’m working with the same illustrator again, and we’re hoping to release it in time for ANZAC Day next year.”
When asked what advice she could give to budding young writers and illustrators, Peta said to start small and write from the heart. “Don’t wait for permission — just begin. The most meaningful stories often come from real emotion and lived experience.”
Where can people get a copy of A New Crown?
You can purchase it directly from Peta’s website: www.rememberwhen-books.com.au. It’s also available at: Babes in the Bush, Barraba; Alice Mary Designs, Wellington; and The Long Track Pantry, Jugiong.