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AustLit

Picture Fiction (1994-)
or Picture Books
Subcategory of The Wilderness Society Environment Award for Children's Literature
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Latest Winners / Recipients

Year: 2023

winner y separately published work icon Kind Jess McGeachin , Jess McGeachin (illustrator), Crows Nest : Allen and Unwin , 2022 24389709 2022 single work picture book children's

'From one of Australia's most talented new picture-book creators comes this beautiful ode to the wonders of our natural world.

'From the tiniest beetle to the most majestic whale, every creature on Earth is a marvel, deserving of awe and compassion. This beautiful picture book is a unique celebration of living things of many kinds - and the kindness we can show them as we wander through the world. A stunning and lyrical masterpiece from an exciting Australian talent.'  (Publication summary)

Year: 2022

joint winner y separately published work icon The River Sally Morgan , Johnny Warrkatja Malibirr (illustrator), Broome : Magabala Books , 2021 22125294 2021 single work picture book children's

'Another simple, universal story from Sally Morgan – this time a beautifully illustrated celebration of the life of the river. The River takes the reader on a journey of what their eyes can see and their ears can hear. See green ants crawling, hear frogs croaking, a goanna running, a fish splashing... Sally Morgan’s beautiful words and Johnny Warrkatja Malibirr’s sensitive artwork combine to make this a unique, distinctive children’s picture book with global appeal. Johnny infuses his illustrations with his fine-art aesthetic and his traditional motifs to bring each page to vivid life.' (Publication summary)

joint winner y separately published work icon Sharing Fay Muir , Sue Lawson , Leanne Mulgo Watson (illustrator), Broome : Magabala Books , 2021 23071627 2021 single work picture book children's

'When we share, there is plenty for all.

'A tender, thoughtful story with a gentle reminder of all the ways sharing makes us stronger.

'Sharing is book three in the award-winning Our Place series (Respect 2020, Family 2020) that introduces children to First Nations philosophies that are dear to Aunty Fay’s heart. Each book is a powerful educational tool, with exquisite illustrations.

'Written with tenderness and clarity, Sharing is illustrated by award-winning creator Leanne Mulgo Watson (Cooee Mittigar 2019).'

Year: 2021

winner y separately published work icon The Giant and the Sea Trent Jamieson , Rovina Cai (illustrator), Sydney : Lothian , 2020 18425945 2020 single work picture book children's

'A giant stands on the shore, watching the sea. She never moves, never speaks, until the day she turns to a little girl and says, 'The sea is rising.'

'The brave girl takes the message to the town. But when the people refuse to listen, the giant must find another way to save them.

'Perfect for the children of the Climate Strike, this is a lyrical and deeply moving story about climate change, standing up for what you believe in, and the power of hope.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

Year: 2020

winner y separately published work icon One Careless Night Christina Booth , Christina Booth (illustrator), Newtown : Walker Books Australia , 2019 15424352 2019 single work picture book children's

'Where the mist swallows mountains and winds whisper through ancient trees, a mother and her pup run wild and free. They hunt, but they are also hunted. Carted away. Sold for bounty. And then, one careless night … The last thylacine is gone. The beautiful but heartbreaking story of Australia's last thylacine (Tasmanian tiger), which died in captivity.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

Year: 2019

winner y separately published work icon The All New Must Have Orange 430 Michael Speechley , Michael Speechley (illustrator), Melbourne : Viking , 2018 13983995 2018 single work picture book children's

'Harvey owned a heap of stuff, but could always use more. The ORANGE 430 was the latest and the greatest. Harvey wasn’t sure what it did, but he had to have it! A cheeky picture book for anyone who’s bought a thingy or whatsit . . . and doesn’t quite know why. In his debut picture book, Michael Speechley explores our obsession with stuff in a fun and edifying way.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

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