I’m never going to get to represent Australia in the Olympics, but this feels pretty close to it for me (minus the tracksuits and excessive sweating!)
Hannah Sommerville and I are thrilled to share that In the Rockpool has been selected as the hero book for the Australian Collective stand at Bologna Children’s Book Fair in April 2024.
Over 100 countries are represented at this respected industry event, which is now in its 61st year. It’s a pivotal event in the global kidlit publishing calendar to explore and secure international rights, discover emerging talent, and for publishers to network and gain insights.
The Australia Collective stand represents members of the Australian Publishers Association – made up of over 12 respected Australian publishers.
The Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing team work hard to contribute to this incredible event (it’s on my bucket list to get to someday.)
Our little book will feature in the digital catalogue, on a rather large wall panel and printed postcards and bookmarks, as well as a Digital banner to represent the Think Australian Publishing Perspectives. (The PR and communications specialist in me is absolutely nerding out on this detail by the way!)
It’s an incredible honour to have our book as the face of Australian children’s picture books this year. Hannah and I are grinning from the bottom of the rockpool and back.
Thank you to Hardie Grant, Creative Australia, the Australian Publishers Association and Australian Government for your support of children’s picture books (and for our podium moment!)
