Andy is responsible for igniting a love of reading in millions of kids. It’s a complex alchemy, but bum jokes have played a large part in it. From The Day My Bum Went Psycho to the hugely popular Treehouse series (which he created with longtime collaborator Terry Denton and which was edited by his wife Jill), Andy has written wild, boundless and very funny adventures that have drawn many kids into the beautiful escapism of books who otherwise may have missed out.

With more than 30 books to his name (and as an ex-school teacher), Andy has become an expert in delving into young minds, and knowing what is going to excite, amaze and keep them turning the page. So we were very excited to chat to Andy and see what he might have gleaned from his unique vantage point as a kids author, and of course from his own dadding journey.

Andy is extremely humble, but passes on some wonderful wisdom and also shares perhaps one of the best ideas we’ve heard for the gathering and preserving family lore. The Family Book. It’s near the end of the chat, so listen out for it!

Andy is a big believer in creating space for kids to be who they are, not who we want them to be (a familiar refrain we hear from our learned guests dad) and tries to practise a simple ethos through it all. Loving What Is - because that’s what’s happening! Great words to live by, for sure.

Massive thanks to Andy - we loved this chat. You can find out lots more about Andy HERE and find his new book, The Land of Lost Things HERE.

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And if you love family adventures, hit the road and take one! But before you do, get in touch with our best friends and the exclusive sponsor of How Other Dads Dad… HERTZ. Visit hertz.com.au/hodd to access an exclusive 25% off the base day rate for your next car hire. T&Cs and exclusions apply. Not all Hertz Locations offer this special discount rate.

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Memoirs of a Sword Swallower

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