The Australia Post Legends Award
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"This year’s recipients are celebrated and award-winning authors – talented creators of narrative books and picture books for young people, from the youngest readers through to adolescents. The Legends of Children’s Literature stamp issue, released on the 17 January honours Mem Fox AM, Morris Gleitzman, Leigh Hobbs, Alison Lester and Shaun Tan." See the Australia Post website for the full article and detailed bibliographic notes on each legend.
Australia Post has also produced a great video compilation of the five 'legends' sharing their thoughts and inspirations for writing and illustrating children's books.
Australia Day Awards
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Emily Rodda: The Deltora Quest author on her new book and her ongoing fascination with riddles and watch an interview after receiving her award. If you are unfamiliar with the publications of Jennifer Rowe / Emily Rodda Readings provides a great introduction.
Sophie Masson: Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant service to literature as both an author and publisher and her active involvement in industry organisations. Read an interview with Nichols Fuller of the Armidale Express. Sophie has a great website to discover more about her writing for children and young adults.
Alison Lester: Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to literature as a children's author and illustrator, and to Indigenous literacy. Find out more about Alison and her prolific publishing efforts on her website and read an article from the Pakenham Gazette: Lester on Honours List.
The Library and Information Association has compiled a list of other award recipients recognised for their work in library related endeavours.
What an exciting start to the year - I am sure it bodes well for children's literature and will kick off 2019 as a year where reading, sharing and supplying books to children and young adults will be paramount.
Go forth and share some of the amazing works from these and other Australian book creators with your children, friends and students.
Jennie Bales
Social Media Coordinator, CBCA Tasmania.