Maria Pallotta-Chiarolli has gained international recognition as a leading writer, researcher, lecturer, consultant and activist in the issues of cultural, sexual and gender diversity and family diversity in health and education. Senior Lecturer in the School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, she also enjoys working with young people in schools and is passionate about her work, social justice, and her incredibly supportive family and friends. Her first book for young adults, Tapestry, explored five generations of her family's history in Australia and Italy. It was shortlisted by the Children's Book Council of Australia and in the NSW Premier's Literary Awards. She is also the author of Gitls' Talk, Boys' Stuff, Someone You Know, and When Our Children Come Out.