Friday 22 August 2025
At St Mel’s Primary School in Shepparton, there's been a buzz of excitement - not just about Book Week or the latest library arrivals, but about celebrating one of their very own.
Catholic Education Sandhurst are proud to recognise and congratulate Di Walker – teacher, leader and now four-time published author – on the release of her latest novel, Secret Keeper. In addition to her role as Leader: Learning Diversity, Pastoral Wellbeing and Mental Health at St Mel’s, Di is an accomplished writer whose books have found a treasured place in the hearts of readers across the country.
Like her previous novels - Unpacking Harper Holt, Every Thing We Keep, and Saving Charli - her latest story is rich with emotion, tackling themes of friendship, grief, and now, the complexity of keeping secrets.
Set in the final months of primary school, Secret Keeper follows main character Nell as she navigates the transition to high school - netball finals, shifting friendships and a mysterious new neighbour named Birdie. With change on the horizon, secrets begin to weigh heavily.
"These are issues that are very common for children and young people to work through," Di said.
"I think it is important to explore topics like the difficulties friendships can have, or the impact of grief however it is just as important to have a sense of hope – by the end of my books the reader knows that the characters will be okay."
Within the walls of St Mel’s, Di’s passion for literacy and learning is evident not just through her writing but through the way she inspires those around her. Students have been eagerly awaiting the new release, and their excitement says it all:
"I think I might dress up as one of the characters out of Di’s books for book week this year."
"Di has inspired my writing."
"It’s made me want to read more!"
"I want early access to our book fair so I can be the first to get Di’s new book!"
Di says the support she’s received from the school and wider community has been overwhelming.
"I’ve been overwhelmed with the amazing community support I have received for all of my books."
And as for her writing routine?
"I like to start writing just after 5am. It’s the best time for me to write, the house is quiet, my dogs are at my feet and I can just focus on what direction the characters are taking the story."
Secret Keeper is available now at Collins Shepparton, all good bookshops and online. Di’s novels are also featured in Book Club catalogues and Book Week Book Fairs across the country; another sign of her growing impact in children’s literature.
We are so fortunate to have such a known and talented author in our midst as another outstanding role model for our children to aspire to follow! Di is generous in sharing her knowledge, skills, talent and love of literacy and learning within our learning and teaching community.
Congratulations Di on your latest release!
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