Michelle Morgan’s historical novel for young teens, Flying Through Clouds will be launched on Saturday, April 8 at 2pm at Gerringong’s Heritage Museum. 

It tells the story of the fictional character Joe, a teen growing up in Depression-era Sydney in the 1930s.

Passionate about flying, he manages to find himself down at Seven Mile Beach to see Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith take off.

Bowral-based writer Morgan is also the author of Racing the Moon, which was published in 2014. 

“Flying Through Clouds is a follow-on to Racing the Moon,” she said.

“It shares the same main character, but the story is different.”

Her latest work is self-published, while its predecessor was published by Allen and Unwin. 

“The (latest) book took close to four years to write and get published,” Morgan said.

“The book is written for young adults, but I think it appeals to adults as well.

“It has got about half-a-dozen chapters set on the South Coast.

“It combines humour with drama. It’s fast-paced and has that historical accuracy.

“It also has a really good story and has had some really good reviews from authors like Bill Condon and Jackie French.”

Morgan has also written short plays that have been performed at festivals throughout Australia. 

She has previously worked as a librarian, teacher and researcher, and is now writing full-time.

Matt Dalton from Gerringong and District Historical Society will also be speaking briefly about Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith and his connection to Gerringong and Gerroa at the Flying Through Clouds launch. 

Copies of the book will be on-sale at the launch at a reduced price, and will be signed by the author.

To assist with catering, please book by phoning Bobbie Miller on 0413 967 385, or email gerringonghistory@gmail.com.

The museum is located at 10 Blackwood Street, behind the old School of Arts building in Gerringong.

This story first appeared on the Kiama Independent.