Library

New Books coming soon....

From the visionary Shaun Tan, an inspirational story for older picture book readers and beyond

Cicada tells the story of a hardworking little cicada who is completely unappreciated for what he does. But in the end, just when you think he's given up, he makes a transformation into something ineffably beautiful. A metaphor for growing up? A bit of inspiration for the unappreciated striver in all of us? Yes, yes, and more.

Margaret Wild has done it again! The prolific children’s author has produced yet another charming, heart-felt picture book that has made it to the Shortlist of the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Book of the Year Awards – Picture Book of the Year.  Chalk Boy is the story of a pavement artist’s drawing of a boy that comes to life. 

Barnaby is a pavement artist. This morning he started drawing me.

 I have a head that can think, eyes that can see, ears that can hear and legs that can run.

 Best of all, I have a heart that can feel.

Thank you, Barnaby.

Chalk Boy is a pavement drawing who understands that life is ephemeral and that he has to make the most of every moment that he has.  In his short life he manages to read, sail, juggle and enjoy himself to the full. 

Then it starts to rain…

Chalk Boy realises that his time is nearly up and that he really doesn’t want to be washed away.  This picture book has a heart-warming ending that encourages the reader to feel hope after being taken through Chalk Boy’s despair, yet it steadfastly refuses to come to an absolute conclusion.

This book covers a multitude of themes and offers a different experience for each reader.  A younger reader may recognise the messages of friendship and compassion, whilst an older reader might be left reflecting on the fleetingness of life.