About Liezl Shnookal - Award-Winning Australian Author & Coming-of-Age Novelist
Liezl Shnookal is an award-winning Australian author known for her compelling storytelling and thought-provoking fiction. Specializing in coming-of-age novels, her work delves into themes of self-discovery, identity, and defying societal expectations, featuring complex characters who challenge the status quo.
Her latest novels, _Nikki vs Jess and Off Track (Second Edition)_, both received the Literary Titan Gold Book Award (January 2024). She is also the author of Fiddling While Rome Burns, a powerful collection of diverse short stories exploring contemporary social issues.

Writing Inspiration
Living on bush acreage near Naarm/Melbourne, Liezl draws inspiration from real-world struggles, personal experiences, and a broad professional background. Her writing is praised for its emotional depth, sharp social insights, and immersive storytelling.
Academic Writing Credentials
A dedicated writer and educator, Liezl has taught Creative Writing at Victoria University and holds a Master of Arts from Monash University, where she explored the craft of fiction writing. She also has a double major in English from La Trobe University.
Coming-of-Age Stories That Challenge & Inspire
Through Bush Telegraph XPress, Liezl shares her literary journey, offering readers a mix of free short stories, visual storytelling, and novels that challenge, inspire, and transform. Her work resonates with readers who love gritty, thought-provoking fiction about resilience, identity, and breaking barriers.
Liezl Shnookal’s Books & Short Stories
Nikki vs Jess
A gripping feminist coming-of-age novel about identity, friendship, and breaking gender norms.
Off Track
A poignant coming-of-age story of love, rebellion, and self-discovery in 1970s Australia.
Fiddling While Rome Burns
A powerful short story about the reality of climate change and political denial.
Fiddling While Rome Burns
A powerful short story about the reality of climate change and political denial.
Sitting Beside Bushfire Survivors
A raw and emotional personal account of a catastrophic bushfire in Australia.
The Tide Turns
A satirical short story about a dystopian future world.