Award-winning children’s books are fostering a generation more connected to the natural world.
The Wilderness Society’s Environment Award for Children’s Literature has been held annually since 1994, and the Karajia Award for Children’s Literature was introduced this year.
This year’s fiction award went to Bailey Finch Takes a Stand by Ingrid Laguna, a moving story about love and loss, caring for the environment and standing up to make change happen.
“I hope [kids] are reminded that they do have agency,” Ingrid said.
“They can make a real and immediate difference to their own precious natural environments, just like Bailey did with the creek and bushland at the end of her street.”
Judge Nat Amoore said the book had “beautifully crafted characters with an environmental message that resonates long after you wipe away the tears”.
“A brilliant example of weaving caring for our environment into a story about caring for each other.”
The non-fiction award went to the Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Peculiar Pairs in Nature by Sami Bayly.
It features “beautiful, detailed images of animals and insects supported by amazing, sometimes very funny stories of the interconnectedness of nature,” according to judge Paul McDermott.
Sami wanted to truly inform kids of the incredible stories and roles in nature.
“I dream of creating a society that appreciates all parts of the environment, regardless of whether the subject is about a blood-sucking parasite or a sweet-smelling flower,” she said.
Two books shared the picture fiction title.
Sharing by Aunty Fay Muir and Sue Lawson featurse a gentle reminder of all the ways sharing makes us stronger.
Judge Bunna Lawrie said Sharing had great artwork.
“The book warms my heart and my soul,” she said.
Ms Lawson said: “Sharing is an important book that introduces children to the concept of sharing not only with people, but with nature.
“I love the First Nation’s creed of ‘take only what you need’.
“If only our society could embrace that, our environment would be much better off.
“It’s vital that we help young people connect with nature, whether it’s their back yard, local park or the bush.
“All nature, from the tiniest butterfly to the plant growing in a crack in the pavement, helps young people recognise and see beauty in the world.
“Connecting with nature builds awe and wonder and empathy.
“Simply, connecting with nature makes us better people and more likely to do all we can to protect our natural world.”
The River by Sally Morgan shared the award.
Judge Megan Daley said it featured “lyrical prose which is age appropriate and encourages young readers of all ages to use their senses to explore the natural world.”
Two winners also shared the Karajia Award – Sharing, and Somebody’s Land: Welcome to Our Country by Adam Goodes and Ellie Laing.
