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Article  •  17 December 2020

 

Beautiful NZ Picture Books from 2020

Sometimes a story is best told alongside a beautiful picture, Here's a small selection of some of our favourite 2020 picture books from local creators. 

Taking the Lead by David Hill and Phoebe Morris

When Jacinda Ardern was little, she wanted to be a clown. But when she saw schoolmates who didn't have lunch, or even shoes, she knew she had to do something. Some kids laughed at her for wanting to help people so much, or said she couldn't do it. But that didn't stop her . . .

This is the true story of a trailblazer who has inspired people around the planet, perfectly accompanied by Phoebe Morris’ bright and lively illustrations of familiar New Zealand scenes and characters.

 

Hound the Detective by Kimberly Andrews

Hound is a brilliant detective who ALWAYS solves his case. But this latest trail of clues has him perplexed - could it be that he's missed something important?

This gorgeous, multi-layered and engaging whodunnit by award-winning picture book creator, Kimberly Andrews, has a delightful surprise at the end. Kimberly’s richly detailed imaginings of Hound’s world will keep young sleuths poring over the pages, discovering new clues with each reading.

 

Abigail and the Restless Raindrop by Matthew Cunningham and Sarah Wilkins

Abigail is a curious little girl. She likes to discover the answers to really BIG questions. One rainy morning, she thinks of a question that's SO BIG she can't concentrate on anything else until she knows the answer . . . how does water get in the clouds?

The ideal bedtime story for any child who loves to ask questions, and with exquisite illustrations from Sarah Wilkins which make the science of the story seem somehow magical!

 

I Am the Universe by Vasanti Unka

Vasanti Unka is known for her riotously colourful and inventive illustrations, always jam-packed with personality, and I Am the Universe is no different.

From glittering galaxies to busy city streets, this stunning picture book takes you on a tour around the Universe. It's a starlit journey through space that will lead you to a wonderful planet brimming with all kinds of life - including yours.

Featured Titles

Hound the Detective
Meet Hound, a brilliant detective who ALWAYS solves his case. But this latest trail of clues has him perplexed - could it be that he's missed something important?
Read more
Taking the Lead
Meet Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, who hopes the things she's done will help everyone, especially children, to believe that they can do great things too.
Read more
Abigail and the Restless Raindrop
Come with Abigail and her mother on a magical adventure, soaring up into the clouds to discover where the raindrops come from.
Read more
I am the Universe
A gorgeous, award-winning illustrated story about our place in the Universe - it comes with a billion star rating!
Read more

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