Hazel Edwards

#### Full Name and Common Aliases

Hazel Edwards is a renowned Australian author of children's books, best known for her innovative and humorous approach to storytelling.

Birth and Death Dates

Born on September 16, 1930, in England, Hazel Edwards passed away on January 25, 2017. Her life spanned nearly eight decades, during which she left an indelible mark on the world of children's literature.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Hazel Edwards was a British-born Australian author, primarily working in the field of children's literature. She wrote over 100 books for children and young adults, earning her a reputation as one of Australia's most prolific and beloved authors.

Early Life and Background

Growing up in England, Hazel developed a passion for storytelling at an early age. After moving to Australia with her family in 1952, she began writing seriously, drawing inspiration from the country's unique culture and landscapes. Her experiences as a mother and teacher also shaped her writing style, making her stories relatable and engaging for young readers.

Major Accomplishments

Throughout her illustrious career, Hazel Edwards achieved numerous milestones:

Award-winning author: Her book _Fiona Stollery_ won the 1976 Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Picture Book of the Year award.
Innovative storytelling: Hazel was known for introducing new formats and styles in children's literature, such as her use of verse and humor.
Prolific output: She wrote over 100 books during her career, cementing her position as one of Australia's most prolific authors.

Notable Works or Actions

Some of Hazel Edwards' notable works include:

_Fiona Stollery_ (1975) - a picture book that won the CBCA award
_The Donut Teapot_ (1984) - an innovative storybook that explored new formats in children's literature
_Humphrey B. Bear_ series (1960s-70s) - a popular series of picture books featuring a lovable bear character

Impact and Legacy

Hazel Edwards' impact on children's literature is multifaceted:

Innovative storytelling: Her use of verse, humor, and other innovative formats raised the bar for children's authors.
Diverse voices: Hazel's stories often featured Australian characters and settings, promoting a sense of national identity and cultural diversity.
Inspiring future generations: As one of Australia's most prolific authors, Hazel inspired countless young writers to pursue careers in literature.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Hazel Edwards is widely quoted and remembered for her:

Innovative spirit: Her willingness to experiment with new formats and styles has influenced generations of children's authors.
Love for storytelling: Hazel's passion for sharing stories that entertained, educated, and inspired young readers has made a lasting impact on the world of literature.
Enduring legacy: Her books continue to be beloved by children and parents alike, ensuring her legacy as one of Australia's most cherished authors.