Liezl Shnookal Australian Author
Stories that Inspire, Challenge, and Transform
Explore Coming-of-Age Novels by Liezl Shnookal
Off Track: An Award-Winning Story of Love and Losing Your Way in 1970s Australia
Off Track takes you to a sun-soaked beach in 1970s Australia, where carefree summer holidays of love, laughter, and friendship unravel into a raw journey of unexpected twists. Join Lucy as she navigates the highs and lows of life, love and loss in this powerful coming-of-age novel.
Praise for Off Track
"This book really moved me – sometimes to laughter, sometimes to tears." – Julie Gillespie, Seaford
"An Australian version of Catcher in the Rye. Everybody should read this book!" – Ros Addison, St Andrews
Available in print, Ebook and PDF
Nikki vs Jess: An Award-Winning Story of Two Women Who Refuse to Fit the Mold
In 1980s Australia, two young women fight to break free from the gender roles that define and confine them. Nikki vs Jess is a powerful coming-of-age novel about carving your own path, defying expectations, and the personal cost of challenging the status quo. A compelling story of friendship, courage, and the search for identity in a world that demands conformity.
Praise for Nikki vs Jess
“Super easy to read, couldn't put it down. It sits between so many genres. Fantastic!” – Vanessa Hutchinson, Greensborough
"Gripping – who was going to win? Loved the books’s ending!” – John Simpson, Brunswick
Available in print, Ebook and PDF
Explore Contemporary Short Fiction Online for Free
Fiddling While Rome Burns: A Stark Reflection on Climate Crisis and Political Inaction
Fiddling While Rome Burns tells the story of the human toll of climate change — from rising sea levels in the Pacific Islands to a grieving widow after an Australian bushfire. These personal stories highlight the growing crisis, contrasted with politicians and moguls who remain indifferent as the world burns. A powerful critique of political inaction in the face of disaster.
Bearing Witness to Black Saturday’s Aftermath
In the wake of the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, Liezl Shnookal sits with survivors, listening to stories shaped by grief, shock, and the raw edges of survival. This personal reflection captures what’s left behind after a raging inferno tears through homes, lives, and landscapes — a quiet reckoning with destruction, gratitude, and the struggle to make sense of it all.
Sitting Beside Bushfire Survivors:
Explore Visual Storytelling and Travel-Inspired Narratives
Discover Exotic Wildlife and Amazing People
Liezl Shnookal's visual stories transport you to distant lands, where the wonders of nature and the spirit of humanity intertwine. From the dense foliage of unknown territories to the vibrant souls that inhabit them, experience storytelling that captivates and inspires.
Australia's Great Barrier Reef is Under Threat
Find out why, and what you can do about it.
Explore Stories from the Blog: Musings, Reflections & Life’s Unexpected Moments
Stories From the Everyday
Small moments. Big thoughts. Personal reflections and ordinary adventures, all told with warmth, insight, and a touch of storytelling magic. These are the quieter stories that linger — thoughtful, sometimes funny, always real.
A Writer’s Path
Step into the world behind the words — from creative sparks and writing challenges to the joys (and detours) of bringing a story to life. A candid look at the writer’s journey, told with honesty, humour, and heart.
About Liezl
Liezl Shnookal is an Australian author who writes contemporary fiction that explores real-life issues through the lens of youth, growth, and transformation. Her stories span from intimate coming-of-age journeys to visually immersive tales of place and people.
Contact
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Writing contemporary fiction and coming-of-age stories that speak to the heart and mind.