Heather Morris

Heather Morris is a New Zealand-born author who lives in Australia and is best known for her historical novels about Holocaust survivors, especially The Tattooist of Auschwitz.

Heather Morris is a New Zealand-born author who lives in Australia and is best known for her historical novels about Holocaust survivors, especially The Tattooist of Auschwitz. She worked in social work at an Australian hospital before becoming a published writer. Her books have sold millions of copies worldwide.

Early life and education

Heather Morris was born in Te Awamutu, New Zealand, and later studied at Monash University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. Her background includes long-term residence in Australia as well as New Zealand.

Career before publishing

Before entering the book industry, Morris worked for more than 20 years in the social work department of a major Australian hospital. She also studied scriptwriting in Australia and the United States.

Writing career

Morris’s writing career began with the story of Lale Sokolov, which became The Tattooist of Auschwitz. She later expanded that work into related novels, building a body of historical fiction centred on survival and memory.

Major works

Her best-known books include The Tattooist of Auschwitz, Cilka’s Journey, Three Sisters, Sisters Under the Rising Sun, and The Wish. She has also announced The Piano Teacher of Montparnasse for publication in late 2026.