Book Week is more than just a celebration of stories—it’s a time to honour the talented individuals behind the books: the authors and illustrators who bring those stories to life. Understanding their roles helps children appreciate the creative process and encourages them to see themselves as storytellers too.
We introduce this concept by asking questions like: “Who wrote this book?” and “Who drew the pictures?” From there, educators explain how authors and illustrators work together, using real examples from much-loved Australian books. This not only promotes print awareness but also sparks curiosity about how books are made.
During Book Week, we explore the styles of well-known creators such as:
- Mem Fox, who uses repetition and rhythm to engage young readers.
- Aaron Blabey, whose humorous characters are brought to life with bold illustrations.
- Alison Lester, whose gentle storytelling and watercolour illustrations help children connect with the natural world.
Children engage in hands-on activities like:
- Creating their own picture books – They dictate a story while educators write it down, then illustrate it using crayons, paints, or collage.
- Illustrator study – We compare art styles from different books and encourage children to recreate them.
- Author spotlight – Each day features a different author, giving learners a chance to become familiar with their works and themes.
These experiences not only develop early literacy and art appreciation—they also empower children to express their own ideas through words and images. Book Week is a time when they see that books are made by real people… just like them.
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