Barbara Hannay: a personal journey to literary success

Barbara Hannay’s inspiring journey from Townsville high school teacher to acclaimed author showcases perseverance, passion, and the power of family support

internationally renowned author Barbara Hannay latest book is called Second Chance Family and is set in North Queensland Picture: Shae Beplate.

Barbara Hannay’s journey from a Townsville high school English teacher to an internationally celebrated author is a story of passion, perseverance, and unwavering support.

Hannay tells NQ Weekend her transition into full-time writing was not a decision made lightly.

“At first, I planned to keep teaching part-time,” she recalls, reflecting on her initial reluctance to leave the classroom at Townsville Grammar School. “I loved teaching, but I was excited about the writing.

“Juggling the two jobs would have been difficult. But I did miss the students in those early years, as well as the camaraderie of the staffroom.”

It was her husband, author Elliot Hannay, who encouraged her to pursue writing full-time, a decision she is grateful for.

Gratitude is a recurring theme in Hannay’s reflections on her career.

“It feels like I’m living the life I was meant to live,” she says,. “All my life, I’ve had an active imagination and haveloved losing myself in story worlds. It’s the way I’m wired.”

Barbara’s journey to becoming a best-selling author was not without its hurdles.

“Perseverance is everything really,” Hannah told NQ Weekend.”Writing is a lonely job and rejections hurt.

Townsville author Barbara Hannay says she is living her best life . Picture: Alix Sweeney

“When I started, there were no independent publishing options, so I needed a publisher. But I was determined to just keep trying.”

It took four and a half years before her first book was accepted, a testament to her determination and resilience.

Reflecting on this, Barbara recalls a pivotal moment that shaped her approach to storytelling.

“Very early I received a rejection that said my writing style was fine, but my story lacked emotional punch.”

This feedback became a catalyst for change.

It was at a conference soon after that an editor’s words resonated deeply with her: “Emotion, emotion, emotion, that’s what we want.”

“These messages really hit home and it’s why I never start a story until I’m satisfied it has a strong emotional core.

“I know readers want to feel along with the characters.”

Family has played a pivotal role in Hannay’s writing career.

Her husband, in particular, has been a steadfast supporter, reading her works in progress and providing encouragement during moments of doubt.

“I suspect I may not have kept trying at the start without him,” she admits, highlighting the importance of having a strong support system.

This support has been crucial in helping her navigate the ups and downs of a writing career.

“All these years later, he still reads my works in progress, and I always go through periods with every story where I’m sure it’s rubbish. Somehow, he always manages to convince me that it’s great and to just keep going.

“I know I’m very lucky to have his support and I’m incredibly grateful.”

Hannay says she draws inspiration from the landscapes of North Queensland, where she has lived for many years.

“I love the unique North Queensland landscapes,” she says, describing how these environments shape her narratives.

“We have so much variety – the outback, the amazing rivers, like the Burdekin, beautiful Magnetic Island, the lush coastline from Ingham north, fringed by the magnificent ranges. Then the soft, green misty Tablelands.

“I think for me, these landscapes are like extra characters and they very much shape my stories.”

Barbara Hannay: Second Chance Family is her 63rd publication

Hannay’s latest novel, Second Chance Family, was launched in Townsville at Mary Who? Bookstore on June 26, marks her 63rd publication.

Unlike her previous works, which often weave multiple narratives, this book focuses on a singular, poignant journey.

“I always like to find an emotional situation as my starting point,” Hannay explains, and this time, her central character, Callie, navigates the complexities of grief and unexpected inheritance.

Callie’s story is unique, not only for its emotional depth but also for its intimate portrayal of family dynamics.

Hannay’s personal connection to her characters is evident, particularly in the depiction of Callie’s teenage identical twin daughters.

“These girls were inspired by my own identical twin granddaughters,” she shares, highlighting the authenticity she brings to her characters.

Ben Galbraith, a Scotsman and a new addition to Hannay’s repertoire, reflects her familial ties to Scotland.

“This is the first time I’ve written a Scottish hero,” she notes, drawing on cherished memories of Scottish traditions.

The setting of “Second Chance Family” is as integral to the narrative as the characters themselves. North Queensland, with its lush landscapes and vibrant communities, provides a rich backdrop for Callie’s journey.

Barbara Hannay’s latest book, Second Chance Family, was launched in Townsville at Mary Who? Bookstore

“The setting of this story is very important to me. It’s divided between Townsville, where

Callie has been raising her family, (and where my husband and I raised our family) and a beautiful property on the Atherton Tablelands.

“Elliot and I lived on a smaller but similar hillside acreage for fourteen years. Our children and grandchildren used to love visiting us there to enjoy the Tablelands scenery and lifestyle. We all still miss it, so that setting is inspired by full-on nostalgia. “

In a world that often feels fragile, she believes in the power of happy endings.

“I’m committed to writing happy endings,” she affirms, aiming to provide her readers with a sense of optimism and renewal.

“The emotional journey for my characters is complicated and messy, but I believe they truly earn their second chance at happiness.”

Second Chance Family by Barbara Hannay is available at all good bookstores.

Go to www.barbarahannay.com

Originally published as Barbara Hannay: a personal journey to literary success