The kids’ school had a book fair during the week and while I was there I had a flick through many of the shortlisted titles for this year’s CBCA Book of the Year Awards. I only got to see a selection from the Picture Book, Early Childhood and Eve Pownall Awards and I wanted to write about my favourites – mostly because I feel that it has been too long since I’ve talked about this topic, and also given my dedication to the kids’ reading.
The Swap by Jan Ormerod and Andrew Joyner is a cute, familiar tale about a crocodile who is unsatisfied with a brand new sibling and wishes to make an exchange. The illustrations are quite darling and reminded me of Richard Scarry’s work.
Banjo and Ruby Red by Libby Gleeson and Freya Blackwood is a story about an antagonistic relationship between a dog and a chicken, with a twist towards the end I wasn’t expecting, but enjoyed. The farm setting is warm and immersive.
Rules of Summer by Shaun Tan – I’ve blogged about this before.
Okay, we’ve reached my top three.
The Windy Farm (sadly not available at Booktopia) by Doug MacLeod and Craig Smith is an entertaining, amusing tale with a strong, but not overbearing, environmental message. The illustrations are rich and vibrant. Loved it.
The Treasure Box by Margaret Wild and Freya Blackwood is a powerful story about the enduring importance and lure of books, through war and time. The illustrations are textured and immersive, and together with the use of collage adds an extra dimension of profundity; they compliment themes perfectly.
My number one, favourite, spot goes to Silver Buttons by Bob Graham. THIS is the book I’d buy for a baby shower, or as a present for new parents. THIS is very similar to a story I’ve had rattling around in my own brain for a while, but Graham nails it so much better. Here’s a snippet from the blurb: “It is in the smallest details that we sense the greatest significance and can see the big picture.” We get a snapshot of the world, as things are happening, the very moment a baby takes his first steps. I had tears in my eyes by the end. It encapsulated the beauty and worth of observation, of celebrating the ‘bigs’ and ‘smalls’ of life. Amazing.
Have you read the shortlisted books? What are your favourites?
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