The Quick Six Interview

5 November, 2025 I was delighted to be invited to take part in The Quick Six Interview with Just Write For Kids, chatting about the story behind Grandma’s Sandals and the journey that brought this very special book to life.

Just Write For Kids (JWFK) has been supporting Australia’s children’s literature community since 2014, connecting writers, illustrators, teachers and others who share a passion for children’s books, reading and literacy. As an emerging author, it was such a privilege to have Grandma’s Sandals featured and to be given the opportunity to share a little more about the inspiration behind the story.

Grandma’s Sandals was inspired by my experiences teaching migrant and refugee children in an Intensive English Centre in Perth. Through Long, a young Vietnamese boy finding his place in a new country, the story explores culture, memory, identity and belonging, and the idea that embracing a new home doesn’t mean leaving the old one behind.

I was particularly touched by JWFK's beautiful description of the book as "heartwarming, touching and tender", and by their recognition of Grandma's sandals as a symbol of cultural heritage, pride and inclusion.

In The Quick Six, I chat about the inspiration behind Grandma’s Sandals, the development of Long's story, working with illustrator Ana Rodic, and some of the ideas and experiences that shaped the finished book.

A heartfelt thank you to the team at Just Write For Kids for featuring Grandma’s Sandals and for the wonderful work they do supporting and celebrating Australian children's literature.

If you'd like to discover a little more about Long, Grandma's sandals and the story behind the story, you can read my full Quick Six Interview below.

Read The Quick Six Interview with Jodie Barton on Grandma's Sandals

The Quick Six Interview