Keith Leopold facts for kids

Keith Leopold (born July 30, 1920 – died 1999) was an Australian writer. He wrote exciting adventure stories for kids and teenagers. He also wrote books to help people learn German. Keith Leopold was born in East Maitland, New South Wales.

Discovering Keith Leopold

His Early Life and Studies

Keith Leopold studied German at the University of Sydney. He finished his special German course in 1942. This university campus later became the University of New England. So, he was connected to both universities.

After his studies, Keith Leopold worked for Australia's Special Intelligence. This group gathers important information for the country. Later, he joined the Department of External Affairs. This department handles Australia's relationships with other countries.

In 1946, he started teaching German at the University of Sydney. A year later, in 1947, he became the head of the German department at Queensland University.

Traveling and Awards

Keith Leopold loved to travel, especially in Europe and Germany. He even lived in Germany for some time. Because of his great work helping people learn German in Australia, he received a special award. In 1973, he was given the Distinguished Service Cross. This is part of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. It's a very important award from Germany.

Books for Young Readers

Keith Leopold wrote many books. Some were for learning German, but he also wrote thrilling adventure novels. These books were popular with children and teenagers.

Here are some of his well-known books:

• Ein Abenteuer in Deutschland (1963)
• Nora aus der Fremde (1968)
• My Brow is Wet (1969)
• Die vier Kidnapper (1977)
• When We Ran (1981)
• Fleur (1993)

From Book to Big Screen

When We Ran as a Movie

One of Keith Leopold's books, When We Ran, became a movie! In 1986, it was made into a film called Run Chrissie Run!. Graham Hartley wrote the movie script. Chris Langman directed it. Famous actors like Carmen Duncan and Red Symons starred in the film.

Special Recognition

Awards for His Work

Keith Leopold's book When We Ran also won an award. In 1985, it received the Avis Page award. This award is given by WAYBRA, which stands for the West Australian Young Readers Book Award. When We Ran was the highest-ranked Australian book on their list for older readers that year.