This was written during the covid lockdowns, but the message of finding joy in doing things together lasts well beyond that time. Sweet and beautiful (and take note of the end papers!) Lindy
Bob Graham is a Kate Greenaway-winning bookmaker who has written and illustrated many acclaimed children's picture books including Jigsaw: A Puzzle in the Post, Ellie's Dragon, The Poesy Ring, Home in the Rain, How to Heal a Broken Wing, How the Sun Got to Coco's House, Max, Maxine, Jethro Byrde: Fairy Child and The Underhills. His 2011 title, A Bus Called Heaven, is endorsed by Amnesty International UK and was the winner of the 2012 Children's Book Council of Australia Picture Book of the Year Award - a prize Bob has won an unprecedented seven times. He has been awarded the prestigious Prime Minister's Literary Award in Australia twice, in 2014 for Silver Buttons and in 2017 for Home in the Rain.
This was written during the covid lockdowns, but the message of finding joy in doing things together lasts well beyond that time. Sweet and beautiful (and take note of the end papers!) Lindy
Bob Graham’s latest picture book displays all the wonderful hallmarks of his children’s books: community, diversity, acceptance, and, best of all, there is always a dog! Set amidst an enormous block of flats, at the end of winter the children come out to play. Last out is Amanda with a big box of chalk. She draws a big circle with squiggles; the invitation to join in is unspoken but apparent. Even the dog contributes to the art. Some simple things endure, and a stick of chalk, imagination and cooperation redefines a grey space into a vibrant thing of beauty. Art is sometimes considered a frivolous thing but at its heart it transforms and informs, just as The Concrete Garden so delightfully portrays. * Readings * The Concrete Garden is a book about creativity and hope and colour and life. * Sharon Greenaway * In this book Graham masterfully tells a heartening and emotional story through pictures and careful choice of words, including some impressive original metaphors...I was mostly impressed with how this short story evokes strong emotions – sadness, a touch of humour, joy, hopefulness, and enthusiasm. * Reading Time *