Book Week 2023

Happy Book Week to our Community!

Since its establishment in 1945, Children’s Book Week has been a significant part of the Australian literary scene. It’s a time to celebrate children’s literature and the role it plays in shaping young minds. At the time of the first national Book Week, there was a shortage of Australian children’s authors. However, today we have an abundance of literature that caters to kids of all ages, thanks to the unwavering support of librarians, teachers, parents, and caregivers who keep the passion for reading alive.

Encouraging children to read provides a great opportunity for them to develop their language skills, including vocabulary, literacy knowledge and verbal reasoning. We understand that keeping up with the pace of your child’s reading and purchasing new books can be challenging and costly. For those that live in the Eastern Suburbs, our Childrens Street library is a great place to find free books, and to leave your pre-loved books for others to enjoy. Head over to 59 Newland Street Bondi Junction, where you can access a variety of free books for your kids. Don’t forget to check out our adult library for something to read for yourself!

Alternatively, if you’re looking to add a new children’s book to your collection, or gift a book to a child in your life this book week, be sure to check out some of the trending reads by Australian authors.

Adam Goodes & Ellie Laing – Somebody’s Land: Welcome to Our Country

A multiple award-winning, accessible picture book for young children that introduces First Nations history and the term ‘terra nullius’ to a general audience, from Australian of the Year, community leader and anti-racism advocate Adam Goodes and political adviser and former journalist Ellie Laing, with artwork by Barkindji illustrator David Hardy.

Corey Tutt – The First Scientists

The First Scientists is the highly anticipated, illustrated science book from Corey Tutt of DeadlyScience. With kids aged 7 to 12 years in mind, this book will nourish readers’ love of science and develop their respect for Indigenous knowledge at the same time.

Scott Stuart – My Shadow is Pink

My Shadow is Pink is a beautifully written rhyming story that touches on the subjects of gender identity, self acceptance, equality and diversity. ‘Shadow’s’ main character likes princesses, fairies and things ‘not for boys’… he soon learns (through the support of his dad) that everyone has a shadow that they sometimes feel they need to hide. This is an important book for a new generation of children (and adults alike) which exemplifies the concepts of unconditional love, respect and positive parenting.

To find other street libraries near you head to: https://streetlibrary.org.au/find/