A Window into the 2026 Judges & Judging – the Jury is OUT!

The merry month of May has provided Tasmanian children’s literature lovers with two fascinating presentations from CBCA Book of the Year Judges. Many thanks to Anna Davidson, Dr Mark Macleod and Kym Diprose for sharing deep insights and intriguing snippets about the judging processes and an array of spectacular books.

 

The first event was held in the Nettlefold Library at Hutchins with stunning views of the Derwent providing a fitting backdrop. With all books across the six categories on display there was opportunity for attendees to view titles beyond the range of the judges’ readings. Mark started the afternoon with coverage of the Picture Book short list and also referenced other titles from the notable lists. He then followed Anna to explore the New Illustrator titles.

Mark’s passion for, and knowledge of, the artistic techniques and the power of imagery to elevate or expand a text was evident throughout with insights shared. Of special note for me were Dawn and the unique and alternative First Nations books The Frogs First Song and Tiwi in Paris. His expertise flowed through to discussions around the outstanding works by new Illustrators and the varied techniques that were applied. Highlighting fine art techniques and design qualities added value and certainly made me reflect more deeply on the selections.

Anna Davidson not only hosted this session and set up the book displays, she also starred in her role as judge, talking about key features of each of the shortlisted books. Her insights were insightful and certainly made me reconsider some of the books from a more enlightened perspective that will send me back for a re-read of a couple of titles.  Some titles were entered in more than one category, The Thing About Christmas being one example, that both judges could talk to, and Anna’s unpacking of the powerful illustrations by Briony Stewart was especially valuable. 

Anna drew our attention to some interesting aspects of the submissions including the number of board books and their quality - no mean feat in regard to themes and language for such a young audience. Counting Crocodiles, a notable entry, was a firm favourite. The criteria applied in the judging process included language, illustration, characterisation, setting plot, theme, mood, source material, design elements, age- appropriateness and production value and it was interesting to hear how these were evident within the books.

With some time free at the end, there was a chance to ask questions and to share some thoughts and feedback on books in other categories. It was insightful to hear how practitioners and fellow readers also reacted to the books under the spotlight.

 

A week later a smaller, but just as enthusiastic group, met at the bright and inviting library at Leighland Christian College. Once again, Mark shared his expertise – I particularly enjoyed his sharing and analysis of Being Indy as a New Illustrator shortlisted title – that has deepened my appreciation for this book for a wider audience – one to talk about in forthcoming Secondary Launceston talk.

Kym Diprose, as a new comer to Tasmania, provided a personal story that established her street cred, and this was entertainingly demonstrated throughout the session. The six titles are all diverse in regard to gender with some strong male characters evident this year, and also coverage across different genres and age levels with realistic fiction being strongly represented. The judges were informed by the values evident in the books - equity, diversity, quality, integrity and respect. The short listed stories revolved around strong characters resolving a range of ethical and problematic issues in convincing ways. 

Sharing insights into not just the short listed books, but also a number of titles from the notable list proved the audience with broader perspectives. Themes of cooperation, creativity, friendship, family environment and loss and grief were common and octopuses were in abundance! With one graphic novel, Inked, on the list, Kym also highlighted three other titles and talked about the high level of design and production in all of these. 

The grand finale for the event was the opening of Kym’s first package of books for next year’s awards, which she had collected on her way to Ulverstone. We all felt part of the process.

Many thanks to the judges for not only the time and commitment involved in being a CBCA judge, but also the joy and passion in sharing their experiences and thoughts with the participants. A grand time was had by all, but we will have to wait until the August 21 before Judges’ verdict is IN! Stay tuned to the website for updates on the Book of the Year announcements.

 

Jennie Bales

Retired teacher librarian and avid reader

CBCA Tasmania Social Media Coordinator

 

 

Editor’s note: Wish you were there? Join a team of devoted readers and practitioners, including a past judge, to discuss the short list and selected notable titles in one of two events in June. There are two more sessions scheduled in Launceston.

Make the most of your membership for free access to:

** June 2, 4-6 pm. Primary Short List Book Discussion at Riverside Primary School. Book here.

** June 10, 4-6 pm. Secondary Short List Book Discussion at Scotch Oakburn Senior School. Book here.

Read the judges’ critiques of all the shortlisted titles in the 2026 Notable Booklet at the e-store on the CBCA website.