Jo-Ann Sparrow
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ABOUT ME
I'm an Ipswich (Springfield) based writer, researcher, Adopt Perspective
podcast host and public relations professional, with more than two
decades of PR experience in the higher education, government and
private sectors. I am also honoured to serve as President of Jigsaw Qld.
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I've written two books / manuscripts - Masters Guide to Wedding
Photography - a non-fiction book, co-authored with acclaimed
Brisbane photographer, Marcus Bell
(www.studioimpressions.com.au). Masters Guide was published
by Amherst Media in New York City in
2007.
The second manuscript is both complete AND a work in
progress...fiction / memoir entitled The Daisy Chain. It's evolving,
and I'm not in a rush for it to do so.
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I write a lot for work, however I hesitate to call myself a writer because I wear a lot of hats, and who needs to 'pen' themselves in? I am interested in reading and writing about the complexities of the human experience. I'm in love with the frailties and failings of us all, that highlight our vulnerability and join us together in one, big, melting pot of captivating, fleshy mush.
I have also written feature and news articles for a variety of publications both in Australia and internationally, designed and created websites and delivered workshops about constructing identity after adoption, writing memoir, finding language to circle trauma and overcoming obstacles to achieve success.
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I have a Doctor of Creative Arts (Creative Writing) USC, Master of Public Relations USQ and a Bachelor of Arts (Journ, Writing) Monash. I served on the management committee of the Queensland Writers Centre and am currently President of Jigsaw Queensland Inc. (Post Adoption Resource Centre).
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I began my life in Brisbane, moving several times - first to a 1200 acre grain farm at Brookstead on the Darling Downs, and then Toowoomba, Nanango...back to Brisbane and I currently live in Springfield (Ipswich). I've been with my high school crush for more than thirty-three years and we've been married for twenty-six of those. We share our lives with our two beautiful sons (one is an incredible remedial massage therapist, guitarist & singer & the other still navigating high school) and a cattle dog who hogs our bed and runs the house.

EDUCATION
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Constructing Identity After Adoption
When I began writing my memoir in 2011, I didn't realise I was constructing a framework over which to drape my future skin. When I completed the manuscript, I could see myself authentically reflected for the first time. I've learned that narrative writing is an effective way to construct identity following a traumatic event such as adoption.
2013 - 2015
University of the Sunshine Coast
Doctor of Creative Arts (Creative Writing)
Writing Memoir
Whether writing for yourself, family history or publication, penning a memoir is both a rewarding and enlightening experience. Discovering ways to innovate in creative non-fiction makes it even more so.
2010 - 2011
University of Southern Queensland
Master of Public Relations
2002 - 2004
Monash University
Bachelor of Arts (Journalism, Writing)