Speech Pathology Australia Book of the Year Awards – 2021 Winners
It’s time for the Speech Pathology Australia Book of the Year Awards 2021!
Drumroll, please! And the winners are…
Birth to 3 years: Look, Baby! by Janeen Brian
This charming book immediately arouses engagement and curiosity, with its clever cut-out design. The story uses rhyme, repetition, and suspense to encourage little ones to make simple predictions about what might happen next. Words and phrases like ‘shiver-quiver’ add beauty to the language and variety to the vocabulary.
3 to 5 years: Boo Loves Books by Kaye Baillie
This delightful story is about a little girl named Phoebe, who is a reluctant reader. It discusses themes that are relatable to children of this age, namely the fear of making mistakes. The gorgeous illustrations are colourful and appealing, providing curious young eyes with lots to explore.
5 to 8 years: The Thing That Goes Ping! by Mark Carthew
This whimsical picture book shares the delight of wordplay through rhythmic narrative and evocative illustration. This engaging and playful story introduces young readers to the concept of onomatopoeia (words that imitate sounds… like ‘ping’!). This helps to build confidence in reading aloud. Beautifully illustrated, this book certainly passes the “read it again” test familiar to parents!
8 to 10 years: Bindi by Kirli Saunders
This strong and fast-moving story addresses the fear and community spirit that is linked to bushfires. Bindi, the central character, is relatable to young readers as she absorbs serious discussions and the events around her, while maintaining a playful viewpoint.
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Authored Children’s Book Award: Is This Your Egg? by Ella Kris
This gorgeous book really encapsulates First Nations culture and spirit. It follows the adventure of Henry the hermit crab, who sets out to find the owner of a mysterious egg. The author incorporates Meriam Mer language of the Torres Strait, for the animals that Henry meets. There is so much here for young readers to learn and enjoy!
About the Awards
The Speech Pathology Australia Book of the Year Awards aim to promote quality Australian books that help children get the best, most literate start in life.
The Awards recognise the “Best Book for Language and Literacy Development” in each of the five categories.
Each book is judged on appeal to children, interactive quality, and ability to support communication and literacy development.
Speechie Library Talks at Western Downs Libraries
Throughout November 2021, qualified speech therapists (“Speechies”) will visit libraries across Australia, supporting parents and carers in building their children’s language and literacy skills.
Learn how to choose the best books, and how to engage young readers. Plus, listen to a reading of one of the 2021 Book of the Year winning stories!
Join us for our upcoming Speechie Library Talks:
- Miles Library: Tuesday 9th November
- Chinchilla Library: Monday 15th November
- Dalby Library: Tuesday 16th November