> Skip to content

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.

More features

See all
Article
10 must read books for children under 5!

Filled with adventure, inspiration and humour, these books are sure to take little readers and their imaginations to new and fantastic places!

Article
Five things you didn’t know about Jacinda Ardern

The Prime Minister of New Zealand is famous for her empathy and leadership skills.

Activity
Hound the Detective printable notebook

Download and print this handy notebook and tick off the items on the list as you make your way through Hound the Detective! 

Activity
Abigail and the Restless Raindrop colouring page

Colouring in = an eternally reliable rainy day activity. Download our adorable Abigail and the Restless Raindrop coloring sheet for a few minutes of peace today!

Activity
Where does the rain come from?

We delve into the science behind Abigail and the Restless Raindrop with this fact sheet about the rain cycle. 

Activity
Taking the Lead: downloadable activity

Download our Taking the Lead word search here!

Article
How to go analog

Join the analogue movement! Check out four key tips for the best screen free hobbies, from colouring in to starting a book club.

Article
Elisabeth Easther presents her debut novel, Seed

Come and join as Elisabeth Easther launches Seed, her always hilarious and sometimes heartbreaking new novel

Article
QUIZ: Which character are you from Beth Is Dead?

Take this quiz to find out whether you're a Beth, Amy, Jo or Meg!

Article
Summer Reads for Curious Minds

The summer holidays are the perfect time to encourage kids to learn something new and explore their interests!

Article
Your questions answered – what to know about People We Meet on Vacation book and film

The film adaptation of Emily Henry’s People We Meet on Vacation is fast approaching it’s January release. The film follows Poppy and Alex over 12 summers as their relationship transforms from enemies, to friends, to… you’ll have to wait and see.

Article
Register your interest in Penguin Previews

Love talking about books online? Sign up for our influencer programme, Penguin Previews!

Looking for more articles?

See all articles