Randa Abdel-Fattah
Where were you born?
I am an Australian-born-Muslim-Palestinian-Egyptian-chocoholic. Try saying that with your mouthful!
What were you like at school?
Naughty but nice, I think! School was great. Attending an Islamic school, the bond between the guys and girls was strong and almost like a family.
What were your favourite subjects?
I adored English - the chance to use my imagination and get stuck into loads of great authors.
When did you know you wanted to be a writer?
I think I always knew - but I thought being a lawyer would be easier! Now I have to find the time to be both!
What do you do in a typical day?
A typical day for me is jamming 48 hours into 24. When writing I have my baby in a rocker under the desk. I type away and rock her to sleep with my foot!
What's your favourite book? - you can't choose one of your own!
Matilda has always been a favourite. I loved Roald Dahl - his wicked sense of humour, crazy imagination and the delicious way he invented words.
Where did you get the idea for Does My Head Look Big In This?
I wanted to write a book which allowed readers to enter the world of the average Muslim teenage girl and see past the headlines and stereotypes - to realise that she was experiencing the same dramas and challenges as her non-Muslim peers - and have a giggle in the process!
What keeps you awake at night?
Usually my beautiful but noisy young daughter!
What's your most disgusting habit?
I'd rather not say!
What makes you proud?
When I get letters from my readers and I know that the books I have written have been important to them - and fun to read!
What's the most important lesson life has taught you?
Never be afraid to stand up for what you believe in. Also, set your sights high and go for it! You never know what you might achieve.
And finally… you say you're a chocoholic! What's your favourite kind?
Dark chocolate with almonds. YUM AND OH SO OFF LIMITS!
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