A Shortlist of Delightful Reads

The Joy and Benefits of Reading

Reading with young children is not just about the joy of stories; it is a cornerstone of their development. Research shows that reading from an early age promotes language acquisition, enhances concentration, and develops cognitive skills. According to recent studies, children who read regularly exhibit greater literacy skills and have a stronger foundation for academic success. Moreover, sharing stories together creates precious moments and enjoyable family quality time. Embrace reading as a cherished ritual, where you and your children can explore new stories, learn together, and broaden your horizons in a warm, loving environment.

The Spirit of Book Week

Book Week is an annual celebration that encourages a love of reading and highlights the importance of literature in the lives of children. While the festivities often include reading sessions and costume parades where children dress up as their favourite book characters, the core purpose of Book Week is to spotlight exceptional books. This week provides an opportunity for educators, parents, and communities to come together to promote the joy of high-quality literature. The goal is not only to foster a love for reading but also to ensure that children have access to books that inspire, educate, and entertain.

The Importance Reading

Reading is incredibly important for a child’s development, even if their current favourite book never makes it onto any shortlist. Sometimes, it’s not just about the quality of the book but about cultivating the habit of reading itself.
Yet, there are those extraordinary books that truly shine. These exceptional stories not only capture the imagination but also expose children to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences, enriching their understanding of the world and nurturing a lifelong love for reading. Those stories offer a lot. It exposes them to different cultures, ideas, and perspectives, helping to broaden their understanding of the world. High-quality books stimulate imagination, creativity, and critical thinking skills. They also provide a means for children to explore complex emotions and situations in a safe and supportive environment. By offering children access to well-written and beautifully illustrated books, we nurture their love for reading and set them on a path of lifelong learning.

Shortlisted Books for Early Childhood (0-6 Years)

Here, we present the shortlisted books in the early childhood category, each carefully selected for its exceptional quality and appeal to young readers.

Bear & Duck Are Friends

by Sue deGennaro

Publisher: Little Hare (Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing imprint)
ISBN: 9781761210327

This charming tale of an unlikely friendship between Bear and Duck invites young readers to explore themes of fear, challenges, and new experiences. The gentle narrative is presented with varying text sizes and directions, adding visual interest and aiding engagement. The delightful illustrations reflect the characters’ movements, creating a dynamic reading experience. The story’s role reversal, where the larger animal shows fear, opens up discussions about stereotypes and emotions, making it a thoughtful and enjoyable read.

Can You Teach a Fish to Climb a Tree?

by Jane Godwin, Illustrated by Terry Denton

Publisher: Bright Light (Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing imprint)
ISBN: 978176050866

This imaginative book poses humorous and whimsical questions that engage children in thinking about diversity and self-acceptance. The quirky illustrations by Terry Denton add layers of humour and detail, inviting children to explore and discuss the story further. As the narrative progresses, it introduces fascinating facts about animals and human babies, blending silliness with educational content. This interactive picture book is perfect for sparking conversations about understanding and celebrating differences.

Grace and Mr Milligan

by Caz Goodwin, Illustrated by Pip Kruger

Publisher: Marshall Cavendish International
ISBN: 9789815009811

Exploring themes of friendship, loss, and healing, this beautifully crafted story follows Grace and her companion, Mr Milligan, through their shared joys and sorrows. The narrative’s gentle pace and repeated phrases offer opportunities for reflection, while the illustrations sensitively depict the characters’ emotions. The story gracefully handles the topic of grief, making it a comforting and meaningful read for young children dealing with similar experiences.

Gymnastica Fantastica! 

by Briony Stewart

Publisher: Lothian Children’s Books (Hachette Australia imprint)
ISBN: 9780734421852

A vibrant and energetic picture book, Gymnastica Fantastica! captures the excitement and joy of a young child demonstrating their gymnastic skills. The lively text, filled with rich verbs and descriptive language, matches the dynamic illustrations that depict the child’s exuberant movements. The story’s energy and enthusiasm are contagious, making it a delightful read that encourages physical activity and self-expression.

One Little Duck

by Katrina Germein, Illustrated by Danny Snell

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
ISBN: 9781460761649

Inspired by the traditional rhyme, Five Little Ducks, this inventive picture book follows a mother duck who has forgotten how to quack. The humorous and lively text is complemented by engaging illustrations that depict farm animals in amusing scenarios. The story offers numerous opportunities for singing, counting, and sequencing, making it a fun and educational read for young children.

The Concrete Garden

by Bob Graham

Publisher: Walker Books Australia
ISBN: 9781529512649

This heartwarming story showcases the power of creativity and community as children transform a grey apartment block with a simple box of chalk. The narrative and illustrations capture moments of connection, artistry, and play, highlighting the importance of imagination and collective effort. The diverse characters and hopeful message make it a much-needed view of community and togetherness.

These shortlisted books are more than just stories; they are tools for learning, imagination, and emotional growth. Each title offers something unique and valuable, making them worthy additions to any young child’s bookshelf.
Happy Book Week, and happy reading!