Attending a conference called Getting Reluctant Readers Reading, Michael skipped lunch to wander over to Victoria Park, home of the Collingwood Football Club. Sitting in the old commentary box on a cold, wintery afternoon, Michael dreamed up a story about a boy travelling back in time to watch footy matches in the past. That particular story never got to be, but the passion to write stories for children burned within. Fifteen years on, Michael is the author of over 35 books, selling more than 150 000 copies over a variety of genres. Sport was the dominant theme early, but The Cursed, The Vanishings and The Immortal attest to a darker side; spooky, sinister action-packed thrillers. Michael, with psychologist and school counsellor, Cathie Thornton, has also co-authored a book called Be Bully Free - an insightful, practical guide for the victims of bullying. Excited by the re-launch of the famous Legends series, Michael also wrote a four book cricket series aligning with the hugely popular BBL and WWBL T20 cricket competitions.