Literacy
BOOK WEEK 2026
With Book Week 2026 being launched at Holy Family next week, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to share this year's shortlisted books with you. What an exceptional collection of stories they are! Each title offers something unique, making the judges' job no easy task.
As I worked my way through the shortlist, I found myself cheering for a few personal favourites. So, I thought I'd share the books that I hope will take home the honours in their respective categories—and why they captured my heart. Whether they made me laugh, reflect, or see the world through a different lens, each of these stories left a lasting impression and is well worth adding to your reading list.
Spirit of the Crocodile is a powerful and captivating story, brilliantly brought to life by Aaron Fa'aoso and Michelle Scott Tucker, and expertly edited by Lyn White. Set on a small island in the Torres Strait, north of Cape York, Queensland, the novel follows 12-year-old Ezra as he prepares to leave primary school and navigate the uncertainty of starting high school. Along the way, he encounters a mysterious crocodile and, as an unexpected out-of-season storm threatens his island home, discovers the strength, courage and resilience of his community.
This story resonated even more deeply with me because our Grade 6 students will have the privilege of spending time with the book's editor, Lyn White, next week. Lyn will generously share the fascinating process of editing a manuscript, giving students a behind-the-scenes look at how a story evolves from a draft into a published novel. She will also inspire our students to begin crafting their own stories, encouraging them to imagine that one day their writing could be recognised alongside books nominated for Australia's most prestigious literary awards.
Derek By Anne Donaldson
This was a hard choice but one that I have made! Derek is a heartwarming picture book about a small fish with a very big curiosity. Derek is constantly wondering about the world around him, asking questions such as where bubbles come from and why food falls from the sky. Yet the question that matters most to him is, "Why am I alone?" Driven by his curiosity and courage, Derek sets out to explore beyond the familiar, discovering that asking questions can lead to wonderful new experiences and meaningful friendships. Along the way, he learns that connection often begins with being brave enough to reach out to others.
This was, without a doubt, the hardest category for me to judge. Every story drew me in for a completely different reason, making the final decision incredibly difficult. After much deliberation, I’ve decided that this category has two winners—it’s a draw!
Dear Broccoli had me reminiscing about my own complicated relationship with a vegetable that has certainly had an interesting history on children’s dinner plates. The exchange of letters between the young boy and the broccoli is absolutely hilarious—clever, witty, and endlessly engaging. Every page is filled with laugh-out-loud moments and a treasure trove of unforgettable one-liners.
Once I Was a Giant captivated me in an entirely different way. It is a beautifully illustrated and deeply moving picture book that celebrates the interconnectedness of nature, the cycle of life, and the enduring power of hope. The story follows an extraordinary journey from a tiny seed to a towering forest giant, touching the lives of many along the way. It is lyrical, thoughtful, and profoundly uplifting, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page.
So there you have it, my choices for which books should win in their section. But, if they don’t I won’t be disappointed, as each of the books have been nominated for a reason.
They are all WINNERS!
Happy reading
Julianne Kelly
Literacy Leader
Learning & Teaching leader
P.S. All of the above titles will be lovingly placed on the shelves of Holy Family’s library ready to be borrowed and shared with our wonderful families after Book Week celebrations.
