Livi Michael facts for kids

Livi Michael, whose real name is Olivia Michael, is a British author. She was born on March 15, 1960, in Manchester, UK. Livi Michael writes books for both children and adults.

Livi Michael's Writing Journey

Livi started writing poems when she was only seven years old. She studied at Tameside College of Technology and the University of Leeds. In 1989, she earned a special degree in English.

Her first novel for adults, Under a Thin Moon, came out in 1992. Besides writing, Livi also taught creative writing at universities. She also led reading groups that focused on books written by women.

Livi began writing books for children in 2002. Her first children's book was called Frank and the Black Hamster of Narkiz. While writing her first novel, she continued her studies. In 1993, she completed her PhD at the University of Leeds.

She taught English literature and creative writing part-time. This was at Manchester Metropolitan University until 1998. Later, she taught at Sheffield Hallam University. She also visited schools and gave workshops to young writers.

What Inspired Livi's Stories

Some of Livi's stories are inspired by her own life. She was raised by her mother in a single-parent home. Later, she became a single mother herself. This made her understand how poverty can affect women's lives. She often shows the lives of poor and working-class women in her novels.

One fun influence for her children's books was her son's hamster. The hamster's name was Frank. Livi described Frank as an "adventurous hamster." She also said he was "something of an escapologist" because he was good at escaping!

Famous Books by Livi Michael

Under a Thin Moon (1992)

Under a Thin Moon was Livi Michael's first novel. It tells the stories of four working-class women. They live on a council estate in Manchester. The book shows their struggles with poverty and unemployment. This was during the time of British politician Margaret Thatcher.

Frank and the Black Hamster of Narkiz (2002)

This book is for younger children. It's about a brave hamster named Frank. Frank escapes from his cage. He goes on an exciting journey. His goal is to meet the mysterious black hamster of Narkiz. After this book was popular, Livi wrote more books about Frank's adventures.

The Whispering Road (2005)

This novel is for young adults. It mixes history with fantasy. The story explores big topics like death, disease, and being left alone. It follows the lives of two siblings, Joe and Anne.

Awards and Recognitions

Livi Michael's books have won several awards.

Livi's Family Life

Livi Michael has two sons. She lives in Oldham, which is in Lancashire, UK.