Joy Watson

Valerie Joy Watson (née Evans; 21 February 1938 – 4 October 2021) was a New Zealand author of children's books, many of which were published by Scholastic Corporation. Watson had also written lyrics to school musicals and songs. She was the mother of writer/singer/musician Mary-anne Scott.

Early life Watson was born in Gisborne on 21 February 1938 to a farming family, she was the second (and only girl) of four children. Although her father left school at a young age, both of her parents were literate.

Career Watson began her writing career by penning stories and poems for her family. and won a Gaelyn Gordon Award for a Much–Loved book in 2000. adapted into a stage show, and included in the Devonport-Takapuna Local Grants for 2017/2018. It has been published in foreign language editions.

Personal life Watson married pharmacist Kevin Watson and they had nine children.

Works Pets (1988) Mouse In The House (1989) Grandpa's Slippers (1989) Grandpa's Cardigan (1993) No Porridge, Please (1994) Just In Case (1996) A Wet Day At School (1996) Foster Dog (1999) Highway Robbery (2000) The Birthday Flood (2001) Grandpa's Shorts (2001) - Children's Choice Award at the 2002 New Zealand Post Book Awards for Children and Young Adults