The wait is finally over!

The CBCA is proud to announce the esteemed 2017 Children’s Book of the Year Awards, recognising the incredible depth and scope of talent in Australian children’s literature.

Professor Margot Hillel OAM, Chair of the CBCA National Board says, “Every year we are reminded how lucky we are in Australia to have the remarkable range of creativity and talent in our authors and illustrators.”

“The 2017 winning and honour books demonstrate why our creators are so highly regarded around the world, with beautiful prose, delightful illustrations and fascinating topics that are sure to delight generations of readers.”

From entries of over 400 titles and almost 600 creators, the judges had the challenging task of selecting just one winner and two honour books from each of the five categories. Winners include a scientist, a street artist, a radio producer and a seven-time CBCA award winner (and Kate Greenaway award recipient) among others.

Of the entries, the Younger Reader and Picture Book categories attracted the highest number with popular themes across the five categories including friendship, family, dogs and humour.

According to Professor Hillel, “In our long association with children’s literature, we continue to see the benefits reading brings across all age groups, from developing early literacy, to building story-telling skills and helping older readers tackle real-world problems”.

The 2017 CBCA Book of the Year Awards announcement, held on Friday 18 August at an event at Government House Tasmania, comes ahead of the commencement of CBCA Children’s Book Week which runs from 19 to 26 August.

This year’s theme Escape to Everywhere will inspire children’s book character parades, activities and imaginative displays in schools, libraries and communities across the country in celebration of Australian children’s books and the joy of reading.

For the full list of the CBCA 2017 Book of the Year Winners and Honour Books please visit our website here.

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