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A 'Tilly' book review by Liz Anelli

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Jane Godwin (text) and Anna Walker (illustration), Tilly, Scholastic Australia, October 2019, 32pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk),  ISBN   9781760663728

A beautiful storybook that rings with a real child's voice - as confirmed in Godwin's dedication to her sister. The family redecorate their home and inadvertently cover up Tilly's secret place where she has hidden her collection of special things. The magic realism here is that Tilly does not speak out. She accepts her loss and quietly creates new treasures. As Godwin says, A lthough sometimes we can't physically reclaim the things (or people, or animals, or places) that we lose, they can live on in our hearts.

The text is perfectly partnered by the subtle colours of multi-award-winning Walker's illustrations. Pencil, watercolour and gouache combine with spacious mono-printed backgrounds. Some details are combined digitally - as carefully as Tilly arranges her own treasures.

At the turn of each page I re-lived childhood emotions of seeking identity and space within a family. On the surface a tale about coping with loss, this book affirms a child's right to their own privacy and secret spaces, real or imaginary.

Reviewed by Liz Anelli

Read Liz's interview with Jane Godwin and Anna Walker here

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Jane Godwin (text) and Anna Walker (illustration), Tilly, Scholastic Australia, October 2019, 32pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk),  ISBN   9781760663728 A beautiful storybook that rings with a real child's voice - as confirmed in Godwin's dedication to her sister. The family redecorate their home and inadvertently cover up Tilly's secret place where she has hidden her collection of special things.

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A 'Three' book review by Liz Patterson.

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Stephen Michael King, Three, Scholastic Australia, November 2019, 32 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk),  ISBN 9781760664053

If you've read you'll be familiar with the way Stephen Michael King can tug your heartstrings. In Three he gives us another stray dog who wanders the streets of the city until he finds himself in the country getting the love he needs and giving plenty of love in return. But rest assured this isn't just a riff on a winning formula. It's a rollicking read in its own right.

Both the book and the namesake character are funny and bright, full of resilience, and a dash of irreverence. Three is so-called because he's missing a leg, and young readers will probably delight in his dog's-eye-view way of describing the other creatures he encounters (the two legs, four legs, six legs, no legs of the world) - because it's both cheeky and revealing. The illustrations fully immerse you in his adventure, zooming in on evocative details then panning out as he journeys through the city. You can't help but smile as you read - because all of the characters, right down to the bugs, ooze sunshine.

This is a book about diversity and belonging, but there's not a sob story in sight. The characters are unique and strong, the story is lively and upbeat, and the illustrations are a whole lot of fun. Three may only have three legs, but he definitely deserves more stars.

Reviewed by Liz Patterson

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Stephen Michael King, Three, Scholastic Australia, November 2019, 32 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk),  ISBN 9781760664053 If you've read Mutt Dog you'll be familiar with the way Stephen Michael King can tug your heartstrings. In Three he gives us another stray dog who wanders the streets of the city until he finds himself in the country getting the love he needs and giving plenty of love in return.

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This website, created by Jules Ober,  details much about the text 'The Good Son' including historical material, study notes and reviews.

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"I have seen your images over time and have always been amazed at your artistry and attention to every detail. Seeing them all come together telling this incredible story of the cost of war is almost overwhelming."

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Little Soldier Stories | PJ Ober | Jules Ober | Stories told in miniature

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"I have seen your images over time and have always been amazed at your artistry and attention to every detail. Seeing them all come together telling this incredible story of the cost of war is almost overwhelming."

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Sophie Blackall shares her book 'Hello Lighthouse' for all to enjoy in this YouTube clip.

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Hello Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall, published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

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Caroline Magerl gives us a sneak peak into her shortlisted book 'Nop'.

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ACHUKA Book of the Day Fri 17 Jan 2020

A heartwarming picture book from award-winning author-illustrator Caroline Magerl about two unlikely loners who forge a lasting friendship.

Nop is a scruffy kind of bear. He sits on a dusty armchair in Oddmint's Dumporeum surrounded by the beaders, knitters, patchers and stitchers who are much too busy to talk to him. So he watches the litter tumble until, armed with a new bow tie, he has an idea that will change his life forever.
Waterstones

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ACHUKA Book of the Day Fri 17 Jan 2020 A heartwarming picture book from award-winning author-illustrator Caroline Magerl about two unlikely loners who forge a lasting friendship. Nop is a scruffy kind of bear. He sits on a dusty armchair in Oddmint's Dumporeum surrounded by the beaders, knitters, patchers and stitchers who are much too busy to talk to him.

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A beautiful YouTube clip showing illustration techniques of Nop, using a cup of tea.

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Nop and I playing in the studio, with the new video camera.

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A 'Nop' Reading Time book review by Katie Mineeff.

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Caroline Magerl, Nop, Walker Books Australia, November 2019, 32pp., RRP $26.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781760651251

Nop was not plush in places, as you'd imagine a much-adored teddy lovingly hauled around by a devoted toddler should be. But, there was nothing to tell where he belonged, now abandoned to Oddmint's Dumporeum. This whimsical story, by Caroline Magerl is beautifully written and will be thoroughly enjoyed by any imaginative young reader who loves adventure.

Nop was the last one left at the end of a busy day, alone he put on a discarded red ribbon and tied it like a bow tie, now he could go anywhere. Nop went to work sewing rags together and with a puff, as light as a dandelion fluff he was carried away by his makeshift air balloon. When orange is spotted amongst green, Nop lets go and falls into the arms of a friendly orangutan at the city zoo.

I thoroughly enjoyed the flow of language in this fanciful story. The lyrical prose creates beautiful imagery, a pocket handkerchief of green evoking the miniscule scale of the city zoo below a floating Nop, for example.

The illustrations are charmingly artistic and some reminded me of Van Gogh's swirly lights in "Starry Night", particularly the tea light scene in Oddmint's Dumporeum.

Nop is loveable and cute and Magerl has masterfully used minimal language to convey her whimsical ideas. Together making this story a great shared read at bedtime for young readers.

Reviewed by Katie Mineeff

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Caroline Magerl, Nop, Walker Books Australia, November 2019, 32pp., RRP $26.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781760651251 Nop was not plush in places, as you'd imagine a much-adored teddy lovingly hauled around by a devoted toddler should be. But, there was nothing to tell where he belonged, now abandoned to Oddmint's Dumporeum.

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Interview with Jane Godwin & Anna Walker

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Interview with Jane Godwin & Anna Walker

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Liz Anelli interviews Jane and Anna about their book 'Tilly'.

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Jane Godwin (author) and Anna Walker (illustrator) answer some questions about their latest book Tilly. Thank you to Jane, Anna, and Scholastic Australia for this interview

Jane's inscription reads 'To sister Cait who inspired the story". The unexpected hard twist that the carpeted step is never again uncovered smacks of realism... Is this a true story? Did her sister ever get that silver bell back?
Yes, it's a true story - or inspired by true events, anyway. When we were kids, our youngest sister Cait's bedroom was in the attic of our house. There was a wooden step up to Cait's bedroom, and while we all thought the step was fixed to the floor and the wall, only Cait knew that it was freestanding and movable. She used to hide all her special treasures in the step, and none of us ever knew about it. Then, just like in the story, one day we had the house re-carpeted, and carpet was laid over the step. Cait's treasures were trapped! She never told anyone about this until she was an adult. There was no silver bell, that part is made up.
Which theme is most important - Finding wonder in small things OR coping with loss OR finding/not finding your voice?
The themes and ideas I was pondering while thinking about the true events and turning them into a story were definitely themes of loss, that although sometimes we can't physically reclaim the things (or people, or animals, or places) that we lose, they can live on in our hearts. I was also thinking about the idea of a child having a right to an inner life, and a right to keep a secret, and that this is perhaps the beginning of a creative life, of finding one's voice. A recent review of Tilly by a psychologist said that many children have a secret space, whether it is real or imaginary. These places play a key role in a child's development and retain a symbolic power that resonates throughout our adult lives. These are the ideas I was exploring in the story of Tilly.
Does Anna Walker compose her delicate watercolour shapes (for example the tree leaves) digitally or paint everything in its final composition?
Some parts of the illustration have been composed and painted as you see them in the book, such as the leaves on the tree and children playing. But in some spreads, I have painted each of the elements individually and layered them together digitally, such as the hallway with all the tiny paintings, toys and children running. One of my favourite parts of the process is bringing the tiny individual elements together, it reminds me of playing with my doll's house as a child.
What other materials does Anna use in her illustrations?
The main mediums used were pencil, watercolour and gouache. The background textures however were created using a mono-printing technique. Mono-printing can be frustrating at times but there are many lovely surprises using the combination of painting and printing, in revealing a spontaneous image that is unique.

Read Liz's review of

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Meet Jane Godwin and Anna Walker - Reading Time

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Jane Godwin (author) and Anna Walker (illustrator) answer some questions about their latest book Tilly. Thank you to Jane, Anna, and Scholastic Australia for this interview Jane's inscription reads 'To sister Cait who inspired the story". The unexpected hard twist that the carpeted step is never again uncovered smacks of realism...

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Mary Ann Cappiello and Katie Cunningham blog for SLJ the ways in which 'Hello Lighthouse' can be used as a teaching and learning tool.

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Sophie Blackall's 2019 Caldecott-winning Hello Lighthouse is a stylistic tour de force that will intrigue and delight readers. The following teaching ideas emerged from the powerful storyline, the skillful, varied illustrations, and the myriad opportunities for students to hone their close reading and research skills.

Exploring themes of loss and loneliness. Hello Lighthouse offers an opportunity to examine these themes through the keeper's experiences. Throughout the story, he fills his days with routine tasks. He writes in his logbook and threads his needle. He listens to the gathering wind. Explore with students the ways daily routine can help build a happy life. What routines do they notice in their own lives that bring comfort and security?

Discuss the ways that the illustrations and the print indicate occasional loneliness for the keeper. In what ways does his daily routine help distract him from bouts of loneliness? At the end of the story, there is a sense of loss as the keeper and his family leave their beloved lighthouse home. Discuss the different kinds of loss here, and extend this discussion with a reading of the "About Lighthouses" back matter, which explains the ways keepers risked, and sometimes lost, their lives.

Where does inspiration hide? Read the back matter with students to learn about Blackall's inspiration for the book. She describes being at a flea market and finding an old print showing a cutaway interior of a lighthouse. Her curiosity sent her on a path of research that included museum and lighthouse visits. Use this to consider where inspiration lives in our daily lives and how we can tap into what we see and experience to create something new.

Flea markets are full of hidden treasures and stories waiting to be told. Recreate the feeling of attending one by gathering a variety of objects such as shells and other items from nature, art postcards, family heirlooms, and old photographs. Invite students to explore the objects to find one that piques their interest and imagination. Give them an opportunity to draw, write, and create something that the object inspires. Finally, have students share their new creations and encourage them to view the world in new ways by always being on the lookout for inspiration.

Researching the history of lighthouses. Over the course of this picture book, the reader is introduced to the essential role that lighthouse keepers played in protecting ships and their crew, and the how the role of lighthouse keeper was eventually replaced by automation. Pull together a range of print and digital texts for students to explore these questions and learn more. What was the first lighthouse in the United States? When was it built? How many lighthouses once dotted each coast of the United States? How many still do? Which regions have more lighthouses than others and why? How and when did automation happen? Did it happen all at once or over time? Students can show their learning by writing books, recording podcasts to share with the school, or building models of historic lighthouses.

Experiential learning: Spending time in a lighthouse. What was it like to live in such a relatively small and round space year-round? Have students research the size and width of different lighthouses,and then map that out on the floor in the library or another place in school. Have them complete activities within that physical space over a period of time. Like the lighthouse keeper in the book, ask them to keep a log of their activities and include how they feel staying inside such a small circular space.

Experiential learning: Looking out a lighthouse window. If your school is on or near a coast, your students may know or understand what it is like to look out the window and see the sea. But maybe they haven't or maybe you live in a landlocked area. Have students research living in a lighthouse or even on a small island. Bring in or build a window frame or two for or with your students. Have them paint murals of the ocean. Ask other students to listen to recordings of the sea. They can try to recreate and record the sound of the ocean by using found objects and materials within your school as well as their own voices. Next, invite other students from your school to spend some time "looking out the window" and listening to the ocean. Invite them to write poetry about their experience as well as their questions about the sea.

Color and space: Decision-Making as an illustrator. Two of the most striking artistic elements of Hello, Lighthouse are Blackall's use of color and the space. Invite students to share what they notice about how Blackall uses these composition elements to create suspense. How does her use of color and space create movement or contrast as you turn from one page to the next? What overall effect does that have on readers? Have students identify pages from the book that they want to more closely analyze as a mentor text. Invite students to incorporate some of Blackall's artistic choices into their own illustration of either previously written stories or new words inspired by the book.

What next? Writing a new story. At the end of the book, the family that lived in the lighthouse is now living on shore. What's it like for them? How do they feel? Explore the last illustration in the book. Brainstorm with your students what each family member might be feeling. Why? What's the evidence in the illustration? In either a shared or individual writing experience, have students write what happens next to the family with the daughter as protagonist.

Playing with punctuation for effect. Hello!...Hello...!...! Hello, Lighthouse! Throughout the book, Blackall plays with punctuation through this repeated refrain. What effect does this have on readers? Invite students to read these lines matching the intended effect the punctuation creates. Encourage students to consider how long they should pause, how loud their voice should be, and with what expression they should read each line. Then, have students look back at previous writing in their journals or writing folders and identify places where they can play with punctuation for effect by adding in ellipses, exclamation marks, and italics to entice but also guide their readers.

Repetition as a craft technique. Young readers greatly benefit from identifying and then anticipating the patterns authors craft throughout a book. Conduct a repeated reading of Hello Lighthouse with students first by reading aloud the story to support comprehension of the storyline. Then, reread the story with a focus on repetition as a craft technique, encouraging students to read along with you as they recognize the patterns in the text such as: "He tends the light and writes in the logbook..." and " Hello...! Hello...! Hello, Lighthouse!" Encourage students to incorporate repetition into their writing to help guide their readers.

Duet reading: Hello Lighthouse and Lightship. Read aloud Hello Lighthouse and Brian Floca's Lightship. Ask students to compare and contrast the different responsibilities of a lighthouse keeper and a lightship crew. Next, ask them to compare and contrast the visual elements of each book. How do Blackall and Floca both play with shifting perspectives and moods in their illustrations? How do their illustrations show action?

Book design and classroom publishing. Hello Lighthouse is a great example of the right match between a book's content and its trim size. In the back matter, Blackall names the two book designers. Your students might be surprised to know that books have designers. To help them think of about their role, create a display of picture books of all genres and topics. Have students peruse the collection and document what they infer is the relationship between the book's topic and its size and shape. Work with students to develop a protocol for designing book format. When should a book be tall and thin like Hello Lighthouse? When should a book be small and square like Me...Jane by Patrick McDonnell? During their next writing project, have students take turns being book designers. As student authors-illustrators finish their written pieces, have them meet with student book designers who help them develop the right format for their book. Ideally, you can partner with the art teacher to make paper, cardboard, and binding decisions.

Room for debate: Technology as progress? At the end of the story, the keeper is no longer needed, as technology replaces him. Engage in a mini-debate about the impact of technology on society and whether technology always equals progress. Explore the impact of technology on jobs today such as automated tolls, grocery store checkout, and ATMs. What technologies can students imagine in the future that may replace human jobs or tasks such as driverless cars and drones? Support students in learning how to engage with one another when they have differing opinions by using respectful language such as "I see your point, however..." and "Since I've listened to your point of view, can I tell you what I believe."

Mary Ann Cappiello is an a ssociate professor of language and literacy at Lesley University. Katie Cunningham is an a ssociate professor at Manhattanville College and co-editor for the New York State Reading Association's professional journal, The Language and Literacy Spectrum. They blog regularly at The Classroom Bookshelf.

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the classroom bookshelf. caldecott medal

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Teaching with 2019 Caldecott Winner "Hello Lighthouse"

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Sophie Blackall's 2019 Caldecott-winning Hello Lighthouse is a stylistic tour de force that will intrigue and delight readers. The following teaching ideas emerged from the powerful storyline, the skillful, varied illustrations, and the myriad opportunities for students to hone their close reading and research skills. Exploring themes of loss and loneliness.

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Maureen Schlosser shares some inquiry learning ideas and resources based on 'Hello Lighthouse'.

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Summary

With contemplative illustrations and word structure, Sophie Blackall tells the story of a lighthouse. Her creative talents shine with her ability to portray simultaneous events. We see the life of a lighthouse keeper contained in circles surrounded by rope. The evocative seascape takes over double-page spreads. Interesting elements point to the passage of time both inside and outside the lighthouse. We see days and nights go by, seasons change, the birth of a baby, and the end of a job.

Hello Lighthouse is a book to be explored and studied. There are opportunities to compare and contrast, notice and wonder, and consider how new technologies replace jobs. The back endpapers give the reader more information about the idea behind the story and interesting facts. It's fascinating to know that this story was inspired by a cutaway image of a lighthouse found at a flea market.

Response to Literature
AASL Standards Framework for Learners: Inquire/Think I.A.1 Learners display curiosity and initiative by formulating questions about a personal interest or a curricular topic.
Set the stage for inquiry by inviting learners to explore the back cover. View the illustration on a large screen to see the intricate details. Prompt learners to ask "I Wonder" questions about what they see. Record questions on chart paper.

Pass out this worksheet. Invite learners to record their thinking in the circular ropes.

Read the story and invite learners to record what they notice and what they wonder. They can use words or doodles to chart their thinking. Include the front endpapers in this exploration.

The "About Lighthouses" page at the end of the book will help learners answer some of their questions. The information may provoke more inquiries! The following resources will enrich investigations:

The fascinating illustrations may intrigue readers to learn more about Blackall. Watch The BIG Picture LIVE Caldecott Special with Sophie Blackall! to learn more about this talented artist. She talks about a book that inspired her to become an artist. Viewers will learn about Mr. Squiggles, a fun game that takes the scary out of drawing. Blackall also demonstrates how to paint a lighthouse using Chinese ink and watercolors.

To learn more about lighthouses, check out the I Am a Lighthouse Engineer Educator Guide by Jennifer McMahon. Learners will investigate the purpose of a lighthouse and solve an engineering challenge.

If embroidery captures the attention of some learners, visit Cassie Stephens's blog. She is an art educator who shares creative projects designed for young learners. Watch her videos to see her deliver colorful, lively lessons in the classroom.

If you like these lesson ideas, please take a look at our book, Lessons Inspired by Picture Books for Primary Grades. This resource includes ready-to-go lesson plans that meet the standards. Worksheets, assessments and rubrics are included. Click here to purchase Hello Lighthouse from Bookshop.org.

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Summary With contemplative illustrations and word structure, Sophie Blackall tells the story of a lighthouse. Her creative talents shine with her ability to portray simultaneous events. We see the life of a lighthouse keeper contained in circles surrounded by rope. The evocative seascape takes...

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Hatchette Australia have created teacher and teacher librarian notes about this CBCA nominated text including cross-curricular links.

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This experience guide is designed to facilitate a blended learning experience as students use Hello, Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall as an anchor text.  Educators may choose among three “pathways” on the website for this cross-curricular experience. An excellent resource.

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This experience guide is designed to facilitate a blended learning experience as students use Hello, Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall as an anchor text. You may choose among three "pathways" on the website for this cross-curricular experience.

Begin by introducing Hello, Lighthouse. This may be a class read aloud, shared reading, small group setting, or independent reading. This is a choice for individual educators depending on the needs of students. Multiple copies of the book are recommended because students will be referring to the text throughout all of the learning experiences. Since students will be exploring the book in detail, it is important to leave plenty of "thinking work" for students, so it is best to avoid too much scaffolding during this first introduction.

The design of this blended learning experience is intended to promote some of the best practices in teaching and learning. Students will have many opportunities to construct and convey knowledge in a variety of ways. They will draw on and hone narrative writing, informational writing, and argument writing skills. They will close read text, develop questions, and problem-solve. The pedagogy outlined helps build a strong classroom community, respect and rapport among students, questioning and discussion techniques, communication, and student engagement. The goal is to create a robust blended learning experience that does not keep students glued to the computer.

Once you complete one pathway, feel free to come back and choose another!

*This Educator Guide has been prepared by Jennifer McMahon.*

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This experience guide is designed to facilitate a blended learning experience as students use Hello, Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall as an anchor text. You may choose among three "pathways" on the website for this cross-curricular experience. Begin by introducing Hello, Lighthouse . This may be a class read aloud, shared reading, small group setting, or independent reading.

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This website offers free early years activity sheets to compliment the reading of 'Nop'.

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A CBCA Notable Picture Book of the Year for 2020 this is an adventure story of balloons and a bear with a bow tie who wants to escape Oddmint's Dumporeum. This is a beautiful watercolour story of Nop's search to belong to someone, anyone. Activities for this book include a dot-to-dot, coordinate geometry mapping, making an origami paper bag, making a patch work ballon and a recycled material bear and a famous bears find-a-word.

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CBCA Noteable Book - Nop by Caroline Magerl - Printable Activities

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A CBCA Notable Picture Book of the Year for 2020 this is an adventure story of balloons and a bear with a bow tie who wants to escape Oddmint's Dumporeum. This is a beautiful watercolour story of Nop's search to belong to someone, anyone.

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Just for the teachers/teacher librarians

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Just for the teachers/teacher librarians

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This blog by Trevor Cairney offers insight to Chris McKimmie prior to the release of 'I Need a Parrot' - it gives some great information about Chris' back story.

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Chris McKimmie is a writer, illustrator and artist. His career has had several phases. In the 1970s he worked as a graphic designer and publications designer for the ABC, the National Parks and Wildlife Services and the University of WA Press. As well, he wrote, illustrated and designed a series of 8 children's books as well as designing many book covers. Later he moved to Queensland and established the illustration program at the Queensland College of Art, Griffith University.

He has also applied his skills, knowledge and experience to film. In the 1980s he was production designer for the award-winning short film ' Stations' (1983) and the feature-length film ' Australian Dream' (1986). He also wrote the lyrics for the songs in both films, as well as 'Madness for Two' (1982), 'Top Enders' (1987) and 'Waiting' (1990). These films were written and directed by his wife, Jackie McKimmie.

Throughout his career he has also exhibited paintings and drawings at many Australian galleries. The last ten years have been a particularly fruitful time for him with children's literature and he has written and illustrated a number of wonderful children's picture books (see the full list at the end). The picture books he has written and illustrated can be recognised immediately by their deceptively simple style. This is a style that reflects careful attention to varied techniques honed over many years working as an illustrator in varied genres. He makes his images using acrylic on MDF, ink, watercolour, gouache, pastels and any other materials that seem like a good idea. I always feel as I read his books that here is an author and illustrator who seems to have a special way of getting inside the heads of his readers to set off sparks of imaginative energy.

Chris has received a number of awards for children's books including being shortlisted by the Children's Book Council of Australia for ' Two Peas in a Pod' (2011), ' Special Kev' (2009), and ' Brian Banana Sunshine Duck Yellow' (2007).

For more on Chris McKimmie's background read the interview I conducted with him at the end of this post.

Brief reviews of some of his recent picture books

' Crikey and Cat', Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2014

Like all of Chris McKimmie's picture books 'Crikey and Cat' is aimed at inquisitive, creative and imaginative readers. It challenges them to think outside the square. Like all of his books he leaves 'space' for young readers to do their own thinking. If the stars suddenly disappeared, what would you do? With a ladder, a tape, and some late night cutting, the problem is solved! "Nice". But then, along comes the storm.... (you should read on). It is a wonderful blend of McKimmies delightful simple images, and just enough words to stimulate young and old brains. Wonderful! Suitable for readers aged 3-6 years.

Scarlett and the Scratchy Moon', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2013

Scarlett can't sleep again. The moon is scratching the sky, and she's counting sheep. Scarlett is also sad because her pet dogs, Holly and Sparky, have died. But then a surprise comes to the door and the world seems new again.

' Alex and the Watermelon Boat', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2012

This book was inspired by his experience living through the Brisbane floods of 2011. The flood provides the setting for a small boy's search in a 'watermelon' boat for his special stuffed rabbit. The river had burst its banks. The dam was overflowing. 'Don't go outside, Alex!' Mum shouted. But just then Rabbit hopped out the open window ...

Good Morning Mr Pancakes', Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2011

It's holiday time for Bee. But first the chooks need their toenails painted, the dogs and cats need their bags packed and Gregor needs enough greens for a week. Then Bee is off to the island.

Two Peas in a Pod', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2010

From the inside front cover Chris McKimmie had me in. What might the four dwarves mean? I didn't think this was a book about dwarves?! No, it's about a boy and girl, like 'two peas in a pod', whatever that means. Violet calls her friend Marvin 'Marvellous' and they do everything together. Like watching the clouds to discover cotton wool castles and marshmallow kingdoms. Or catching the train in their lounge room to Toowoomba, Dimboola, Woop Woop and beyond. They live in Raven Street and you never know what they might encounter - ghosts, dwarves, woolly elephants? When Marvin leaves Violet for the plane trip home, it's always lonely. But luckily, Mum and T Rex are there waiting. I just love this book!

Special Kev Christopher', McKimmie (written & illustrated), East Melbourne: Allen and Unwin, 2008

If only my Mum had called me 'Special Kev' (funny thing is that strangers often call me 'Kevin', but that's my story). Trevor ('Special Kev') was always going to be different. He was born on April Fools Day and had different qualities to all of his "eleventy million cousins". With curly red hair and freckles he'd be noticed all right. Kevin seems to have a life with plenty of problems (like 'the thing with Nicky Bathgate) and it's never his fault. No, it was Fatty Boombah's, Nicky's, or Megan the Meanie's. Only Aunty Pav - who like Kevin is unique - seems to offer him a lifeline. This special book about a special child, has lots to say about difference, friendship and family. As with all McKimmie's books, it offers an opportunity for joyous fun with young children, but there is always a deeper point that awaits the reflective reader.

Maisie Moo and Invisible Lucy'. Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2007

The funny and tender story of Maisie who lives with her parents in the Gone Bonkers Discount Palace. She shares her troubles and joys with her invisible friend, Lucy, and misses her father who is often away driving his truck.

Brian Banana Duck Sunshine Yellow', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), East Melbourne: Allen and Unwin, 2006

A wonderful, innovative, quirky picture book about a child's search for identity and the need to belong - and a glorious celebration of the colour yellow.

An Interview with Chris McKimmie

1. Most of your published profiles don't say a lot about you. Where did you grow up? What were your early influences? Are there people who helped to shape the Chris McKimmie who writes and illustrates such interesting picture books?

I was born in Perth, Western Australia and I am the youngest in a family of five. I grew up surrounded by aunties and cousins. Every Christmas we would gather around two trestle tables at my Italian grandmothers place two doors up. She had twelve kids, including my mother. The aunties, uncles and cousins would drink, play the piano accordion and sing and watch my grandmother have her one cigarette a year on her birthday which was also Christmas day.

At school we didn't have art. We had tech drawing which I would always get smudged and crooked. I didn't like school much and was glad to get out. My last year at school was spent listening to the top 40 hit parade and plotting the course of various songs and playing along on my homemade drum kit. When I left school after just scraping through I bought a sparkling red Premier drum kit and played in bands at weddings, twenty firsts, nightclubs and the one jazz club in Perth. Then I went to Sydney where I met Jackie.

We both returned to Perth and studied there and had our first son while we were students. I studied Graphic Design with electives in painting and drawing and I finished my studies a year before Jackie and worked at the West Australian University Press as a book designer. Every pay day I would buy a children's book for our son. This was my introduction to picture books. I realised that as long as a book had a certain honesty to it that it served a purpose one way or another and at some time or other.

When Jackie finished her studies we moved to Sydney and had our second son. I worked various jobs cleaning and then as a designer at National Parks and Wildlife and the Australian Broadcasting Commission. Then I took a year off to help raise the boys and write and illustrate some children's books while we both worked part-time. The 8 books I wrote, designed and illustrated were published by Hicks Smith and Methuen and sold internationally. In 1976 we moved to Queensland so I could take up a job offer from the Queensland College of Art. We planned on staying a few years but have been here a bit longer than that. Up until 2001 I was the convenor of the illustration programme at the college. Since I left I have been working on stories and books and paintings for exhibitions.

2. Do you love story as much as illustrating? Do you see the words in your books as just as important as the images?

Yes. I work on both together and change them as the story develops. Sometimes getting rid of some pretty good pictures. Sometimes getting rid of some pretty good writing. I also design all my books and I see that as a valuable part of the story as well.

3. Could you tell me a little about the inspiration for 'Crikey and Cat'?

Crikey started out as the blue book. Pretty much the first half of the book. The publishers asked me to combine it with two other books I had sent them in rough form. These books were about a red cat. I found it impossible because the story lines wouldn't connect. I asked Jackie, my wife, who is a writer of films, plays and poetry if she could come up with anything and she solved the story line in about five minutes.

4. A number of reviewers speak of your work as 'quirky', and this word came to my mind as well. But it seems to me that it's much more than this. Do you see a book like 'Crikey and Cat' as quirky or would you describe the book another way?

No I don't see it as quirky. Nor do I see my other books as quirky. I just work around my limitations.

5. What is the best response you've ever had to your illustrative & creative work?

I once got an e mail from a woman who told me she was taking my book Brian Banana Duck Sunshine Yellow on holidays with her and she reads it four or five times a day and that the line 'It's just beautiful, Wayne' was the best line ever written in the English language. I was pretty glad I lived in a different state.

6. Do you have other book projects on the drawing board?

I have just signed a contract for a book called Lara of Newtown about a cat that is abandoned at Christmas time then is given as a Christmas present and abandoned again.

7. Who or what has been the most significant influence on your creative work?

Pretty much everything. I read a lot of poetry. Novels, short stories and picture books. If you have read some of my books e.g. Good Morning Mr Pancakes all the grandkids have been a help as well.

Full List of Chris McKimmie's Children's Books

'Crikey and Cat', Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2014
'Scarlett and the Scratchy Moon', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2013
'Alex and the Watermelon Boat', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2012

'Good Morning Mr Pancakes', Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2011
'Two Peas in a Pod', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2010
'Special Kev Christopher', McKimmie (written & illustrated), East Melbourne: Allen and Unwin, 2008
'Maisie Moo and Invisible Lucy'. Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Crows Nest: Allen and Unwin, 2007
'Brian Banana Duck Sunshine Yellow', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), East Melbourne: Allen and Unwin, 2006

Earlier Works

'The Caught Bird', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), Sydney: Methuen Australia, 1977
'The Shape I'm In', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), Sydney: Methuen Australia, 1977
'One Rainy Day', Christopher McKimmie(written & illustrated), Sydney: Methuen Australia, 1977
'The Magic Day', Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Sydney: Methuen Australia, 1977
'Apple to Zoo', Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Sydney: Hicks Smith, 1975
'The Painted Bird', Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Sydney: Hicks Smith 1975 'Two Friends', Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Sydney: Hicks Smith, 1975
'One Day', Christopher McKimmie (written & illustrated), Sydney: Hicks Smith, 1975

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Author & Illustrator Focus: Chris McKimmie

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Chris McKimmie is a writer, illustrator and artist. His career has had several phases. In the 1970s he worked as a graphic designer and publications designer for the ABC, the National Parks and Wildlife Services and the University of WA Press.

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Ford Street Publishing have released teacher notes for 'I Need a Parrot' including cross-curriculum links.

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Megan Daley discusses the quirkiness of 'I Need a Parrot'. An entertaining review. Review of this text can be seen from 4:58min - 9:06min of the YouTube clip.

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Wouldn't it be cool if I could claim earrings as business deduction?! I mean I match my earrings to my books pretty much everyday...it's close right?!
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These cicada earrings are SO GREAT and I WISH I'd had them when I did my workshops for BCC Libraries on 'Searching for Cicadas'. At those workshops I grossed all the kids out telling them how when *I* was a kid I used to collect cicada shells and wear them like brooches (as their sticky/spiky legs stick to fabric). I've upped my game really - now I have actual cicada jewellery!

'Searching for Cicadas' the book is here: https:// childrensbooksda ily.com/ searching-for-ci cadas-narrative-non-fiction/
Cicada earrings are here: http://ow.ly/wAn750zG1hr

You're welcome!

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Cheese and chatterboxes (the paper kind and the human kind). . Tonight I'm calling blue cheese, pear, walnuts and crackers 'dinner' and we're doing some of the activities from the reading activities from our posters. The Tween is in her bed reading as this is where the chatterbox told her to read!

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Straight from the Children's Book Council of Australia on why this unique text made the Notable list.

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The Conference is a way to connect with fellow literary colleagues and immerse yourself in children's literature providing a unique learning and networking opportunity for teacher librarians, authors, illustrators, publishing professionals, educators or simply children's book lovers.

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The Conference is a way to connect with fellow literary colleagues and immerse yourself in children's literature providing a unique learning and networking opportunity for teacher librarians, authors, illustrators, publishing professionals, educators or simply children's book lovers.

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Read two different takes on the text 'I Need a Parrot' from Good Reads.

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I need a parrot

By Chris Mckimmie

Overall rating: 4 stars

This book was creative, engaging and really funny! It was a clear concept which is perfect for the younger audience it is asking for. Throughout the book we meet different animals and embark on a journey with the main character to get to a point of realisation. Birds are not meant to be kept in cages. This book was fun to read with kids and provided a laugh for everyone.

Thank you, Ford Street Publishing, for sending me a copy in exchange...more

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I need a parrot By Chris Mckimmie Overall rating: 4 stars This book was creative, engaging and really funny! It was a clear concept which is perfect for the younger audience it is asking for. Throughout the book we meet different animals and embark on a journey with the main character to get to a point of realisation.

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Everything you need to know about author/illustrator Stephen Michael King.

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All of my books, big and small, authored and illustrated.

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Stephen Michael King writes about authoring and illustrating the text 'Three'.

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Once, when I was at the snow, a three legged dog introduced himself to me and he wouldn't leave. I thought he was an amazing character and I tried every year for twenty years to write a good first draft of what was to eventually become Three. When my other main character, a one legged lady, changed to a girl with two legs . . . I'd got it. Instead of my idea being about finding the familiar, my story became one of understanding, acceptance, empathy, being thankful and following your own path.

Three doesn't have a giant (big explosions & scary monsters) narrative arch because most dogs in real life don't. They may face danger and there are things that they need, but mostly dogs adapt to their conditions while continuously wagging their tails.

After I'd written Three, I realised that at its core the story was about my older brother David - who was born with Polands Syndrome. I dedicated the story to him. You'll see a photo of us on the back of my Uncle's tractor. In the photo you can see that his right hand and arm are smaller. He learnt to do lots of things with his other hand even though he was naturally right handed. My brother and I were always making stuff together. He's always happy and not much ever gets him down. Love him!

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Once, when I was at the snow, a three legged dog introduced himself to me and he wouldn't leave. I thought he was an amazing character and I tried every year for twenty years to write a good first draft of what was to eventually become Three.

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This blog is dedicated to children's books about WW1 and WW2. The review is an interesting read.

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The Good Son is probably the most unusual book I've reviewed on this blog. It is a World War I story about one small soldier's experience and although it's a picture book for older readers, the recommended is age 14+. And it isn't exactly illustrated in the traditional sense - each page is photographed using customized painted miniature figures, more sophisticated versions of the kind toy solders so many kids played with, and all of them are set in detailed landscapes, creating powerfully effective tableaus.

Written one hundred years after the end of WWI, the tale opens, in slightly blurred black and white photos, long after the war is over. It was a war that was supposed to be over by the first Christmas, but instead went on for years, while people suffered and kept going into battle.
The story shifts then to color photos of Pierre, a young French solder, sitting alone, locked in a barn. Pierre is facing execution for desertion, having gone AWOL for two days to spend Christmas with his widowed mother and not wanting her to be alone. Left by himself in the barn, Pierre has time to think about why he enlisted, about loyalty, about the horrors of war, and about what had been his hopes and dreams for his life after the war.

Believing the propaganda and wanting to make his mother proud, Pierre had, like so many men, signed up to fight once war was declared in 1914. As the war drags on, and more and more men are killed, Pierre realizes that war is terrible, a point that is made over and over. But, Pierre was a good soldier, even receiving a commendation for capturing six German soldiers, albeit, soldiers who are tired of war and just want to be out of it - feelings Pierre shares with them.

Readers learn a lot about Pierre as he sits in the barn awaiting his fate. His friend Gilbert, who once saved Pierre's life, brings him in food, wine, and company. But even Pierre's good behavior and commendation don't help him when his colonel sentences him to be shot for desertion the next morning:

As the war drags on, and morale sinks among the other soldiers, the colonel had decided to make an example of Pierre.

So, no, Pierre doesn't not survive the war but his story is sure to remain with sensitive readers long after they close this book.

The Good Son is probably one of the most effective anti-war books I've ever read. Pierre's story is told in one or two short lyrical sentences on each page, with accompanying photos that move the tale along, revealing the pointlessness and the unfairness of war. Readers will find themselves asking questions about how propaganda is used to motivate people, especially young people, about patriotism, and about how does a good son, a good soldier end up in front of a firing squad? All this makes The Good Son is a very interesting and unusual philosophical look at war.

An compelling point that this book makes is that war is fought by little solders, young men like Pierre, and that these soldiers are at the mercy not only of the military, but also the politicians who decide to go to war, a point the is driven home through the metaphorical use of little toy soldiers, making Pierre's story all the more poignant. And I think that the little toy soldiers have a much more profound impact on the reader that conventional illustrations would have had.

You may have a hard time getting your teens into this picture book, but I believe that once they begin to think and explore its pages, The Good Son will really resonate with them. After all, some of them may be the future's little soldiers.

Back matter includes A Note from the Author and photographs and an explanation on The Process by which The Good Son was created. You can also find would some photographs of how each tableau was created on the author's Instagram page.

Parents and teachers can also find factual information giving context for The Good Son

The Good Son will be available in the US on May 14, 2019.

This book is recommended for readers age 14+
This book was sent to me by the publisher, Candlewick Studio

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The Good Son: A Story From the First World War Told in Miniature by Pierre-Jacques Ober, illustrated by Jules Ober and Felicity Coonan

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The Good Son is probably the most unusual book I've reviewed on this blog. It is a World War I story about one small soldier's experience and although it's a picture book for older readers, the recommended is age 14+.

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Walker Books shares information about the text 'The Good Son' and the author and illustrators.

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The Good Son wins 1st Prize at the Prix Sorcières 2019, France's most prestigious award for children's books A young WWI soldier's unauthorized visit home has dire consequences in a haunting story reimagined in miniature tableaux.

About one hundred years ago, the whole world went to war. The war was supposed to last months. It lasted years. It is Christmastime, 1914, and World War I rages. A young French soldier named Pierre had quietly left his regiment to visit his family for two days, and when he returned, he was imprisoned. Now he faces execution for desertion, and as he waits in isolation, he meditates on big questions: the nature of patriotism, the horrors of war, the joys of friendship, the love of family, and how even in times of danger, there is a whole world inside every one of us. And how sometimes that world is the only refuge. Its publication coinciding with the centennial of the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, this moving and sparely narrated story, based on true events, is reenacted in fascinating miniature scenes that convey the emotional complexity of the tale. Notes from the creators explore the innovative process and their personal connection to the story.

A book in the vein of Art Spiegleman's Maus and Shaun Tan's The Arrival, which encourages young people to grapple with the difficult truths of humanity.

Publishing at the centennial of the Treaty of Versailles, the peace treaty signed at the conclusion of World War 1.

Art is photographs of intricately detailed miniatures paired with an emotionally complex, spare story - this book is the ultimate high-low read. And it haunts you long after you finish it.

About the author

Pierre-Jacques Ober was born in a military family but broke with family tradition in his preference for philosophy over war. He lives with his wife, Australian photographer Jules Ober, in the rain forest of Australia.

About the illustrator

Jules Ober is a self-taught photographer and designer as well as a multimedia producer, teacher of digital imagery, and website creator. She lives in Australia with her husband, Pierre-Jacques Ober.

ISBN: 9781536204827
Imprint: Candlewick Studio
Distributor: Walker Australia-HEDS
Binding: Hardback
Release Date: June 1, 2019
Dimensions: 269 x 229mm, 104pp
Stock Status: Confirmed
Australian RRP: $34.99
New Zealand RRP: $37.99
Stock Level: In Stock

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The Good Son: A Story from the First World War, Told in Miniature

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The Good Son: A Story from the First World War, Told in Miniature by Pierre-Jacques Ober, illustrated by Felicity Coonan, Jules Ober, 2019. The Good Son wins 1st Prize at the Prix Sorcières 2019, France's most prestigious award for children

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This PDF provides teaching and learning ideas, author and illustrator biographies and cross-curriculum links.

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This website offers free early years activity sheets to compliment the reading of 'Tilly'.

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Shortlisted to be the Children's Book Council of Australia 2020 Picture Book of the Year - Tilly is a masterfully created story of how life can change so quickly for young children. Activities for this book include a maze, writing a letter, a find-a-word, alphabetical ordering and imagining treasures.

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CBCA 2020 Shortlist Picture Book - Tilly by Jane Godwin - Free Activities

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Shortlisted to be the Children's Book Council of Australia 2020 Picture Book of the Year - Tilly is a masterfully created story of how life can change so quickly for young children. Activities for this book include a maze, writing a letter, a find-a-word, alphabetical ordering and imagining treasures.

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Anna Walker and Jane Godwin talk about the making of the book 'Tilly'.

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Walker Books offers Classroom Ideas as well as further information on the text 'Nop'.

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Title: Nop Author and Illustrator: Caroline Magerl Download Nop Classroom Ideas Read more about Nop