Tasmanian author and illustrator, Fiona Levings, also has a PhD in Geology. Although no longer working in that field Fiona has expertly harnessed her experiences and knowledge to craft an informative and captivating picture book to tell, in lyrical prose and amazingly detailed illustrations, the story of the mountain that embraces Hobart in its foothills. Fiona shares some of the challenges, planning, book design and illustrative techniques undertaken to capture a millennia of geological change in Before the Mountain had a Name.
When was the last time you were so immersed in a book that the world passed you by? Maureen Mann considers some possible criteria to bring on such a state of absorption and shares some titles have engrossed her. Can you think of others?
This week we welcome author Johanna Bell and illustrator Huni Melissa Bollinger to talk about their publication, Digger Digs Down published by University of Queensland Press. Recently settling in Tasmania, this dynamic duo have produced a delightful and exuberant story about how a dog, left alone for the day, entertains himself by … digging!
Perseverance is evident in Blake Nuto’s post as he shares his love of story creation from an early age and his self-doubts about his illustrative abilities. With maturity came purpose – and the joy of expression through art. This passion is beautifully portrayed in his recent title, When You’re a Boy, shortlisted for the New Illustrator award in the 2024 CBCA Book of the year nominations.
This week’s post presents students’ recommendations for some great reads for year 5 and 6 students. It is a treat to have a window into an effective school library program to support children in their book selections.
CBCA Book of the Year lists always gender healthy discussion and keen readers may ponder the absence of some favourite reads that didn’t make either the short list or the notable list. Avid reader, Nella Pickup, has picked out some of her favourite titles from 2023 to expand your reading – can you think of others?
Contemporary children’s fiction increasingly represents neuro diverse characters and this week’s post considers whether this should be identified in the blurb or not.
