Local children’s authors and illustrators will step into the spotlight at Te Noninga Kumu-Motueka District Library as part of Aotearoa Children’s Book Week.
The celebration runs from Saturday, 15 August to Friday, 21 August, with branch librarian Janine Gillions working with schools and home-schooling families to connect students with book readings and workshops focused on drawing and character development.
“That just brings books to life,” she says, adding that she is delighted to bring writers into the library, giving the community a chance to engage with the “lush literary landscape” of local authors.
About a dozen creatives will be involved in the week-long celebration, including Pete Moffatt, Carol Duffy, Julia Panfylova, Jess Twohill and Mat Tait. Their work caters for everyone from preschoolers and primary-aged children through to young adults.
A highlight of the week will be a networking event on Thursday, 20 August, offering an open forum for published and aspiring authors and illustrators to connect. Dave MacManus, from self-publishing company The copyPress, will also attend.
The meet-and-greet will be open to the public, and Janine hopes it will become an annual fixture on the local literary calendar.
