Wrightson, Patricia (1921–)
Wrightson, Patricia (1921–)
Australian novelist. Born Alice Patricia Furlonger in Lismore, New South Wales, Australia, June 1921; dau. of Charles Radcliff Furlonger (a solicitor) and Alice (Dyer) Furlonger; attended St. Catherine's College, Stanthrope, Queensland, 1932; State Correspondence School, 1933–34; married 1943 (div. 1953); children: Jennifer Mary Wrightson Ireland; Peter Radcliff.
Published the novel The Crooked Snake (1955), which was named Australia's Book of the Year; won award thrice more (1974, 1978, and 1984); became assistant editor of Sydney's School Magazine (1964), a publication for elementary school students, serving as editor (1970–75); published a new book every year or two (1955–97); though best known for her realistic books, which were often set in the Australian landscapes of her childhood, also published science fiction and fantasy novels for children, including several series, most notably the "Wirrun" trilogy: The Ice is Coming (1977), The Dark Bright Water (1979) and Behind the Wind (1981); wrote numerous fantasy novels for adults as well, and edited 2 collections of juvenile stories, Beneath the Sun (1972) and Emu Stew (1976). Awarded the Order of the British Empire (1978); received New South Wales Premier's Award for ethnic literature (1979); won Hans Christian Andersen Medal (1986) and New South Wales Premier's Special Occasion Award (1988).
See also Women in World History.