Ep 25: Lyrebird Ladies Choir sings Sandie Docker's praises

Episode Title: The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir

Podcast: Between The Lines

Hosts: Leanne Tran and Chelle Griffin

Guest: Sandie Docker

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "Between The Lines," hosts Leanne Tran and Chelle Griffin are joined by Australian author Sandie Docker to discuss her sixth book, "The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir," set to release on June 18. The novel centers on sisters Eleanor and Maggie, who run a choir, and single mom Hannah, who joins them. Sandie highlights themes of community, belonging, and motherhood, drawing from her own experiences. She also shares insights into her writing journey, including overcoming 200 rejections before her first book's publication in 2018, and her role as founder and director of the Northern Beaches Readers Festival.

Key Discussion Points:

• Introduction and Background of Sandie Docker: Leanne introduces Sandie, discussing her background, love for reading, and transition to writing. Sandie shares her experiences balancing writing with family life and the release of her sixth book in six years.

• Sandie's Writing Journey and Achievements: Sandie talks about her first novel, "The CoCo Burrow Creek Cafe," and subsequent books. She discusses her role in the Northern Beaches Readers Festival and the supportive nature of the Australian writing community.

• Themes and Community in Sandie's Books: The hosts and Sandie explore themes of community, belonging, and hope in her books, influenced by her upbringing in Coffs Harbour. They discuss the importance of small towns and the connections between characters.

• Exploring Motherhood and Sacrifice: Sandie shares how her personal experiences as a mother influence her portrayal of motherhood, sacrifice, and determination in her books, emphasizing the search for belonging.

• The Role of Music and Choir in the Book: Sandie explains the therapeutic aspects of music and how the choir theme in "The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir" serves as a metaphor for community and support.

• Challenges and Determination in Writing: Sandie discusses the challenges of getting published, the importance of resilience, and how her persistence serves as a role model for her daughter.

• Future Plans and Writing Process: Sandie shares her current work on new book ideas, the fast-paced nature of writing and promoting, and the importance of finding balance in the writing process.

• Favorite Characters and Audiobooks: Sandie expresses her love for all her characters and discusses the casting process for audiobooks, sharing her enjoyment of audiobooks to keep up with reading.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts:

Leanne and Chelle wrap up the conversation, encouraging listeners to pre-order "The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir" and support local independent bookstores. Sandie confirms the availability of the audiobook edition on the same release day as the print and ebook versions. The hosts thank Sandie for joining them and wish her continued success with her book and future projects.