Margaret Mahy Book of the Year
Charlie Tangaroa and the Creature from the Sea by T K Roxborogh
Development of a port is degrading the ocean and has reignited tension between the Māori gods, throwing both the human world and the realm of the gods into chaos. A ponaturi, a sea goblin, believes that Charlie Tangaroa straddles the two worlds and that only he can restore calm. Somehow Charlie must find a way to reunite the gods and stop the destruction. Believable, gripping and thoroughly enjoyable.
Picture book Award
Kōwhai and the Giants written and illustrated by Kate Parker
Based on a shadow box exhibition at the Arataki Visitor Centre in 2016/17, Kate Parker’s illustrations capture a sense of their original three dimensions, using a palette from kauri browns to kōwhai golds. These accompany a poetic text, which tells us of Kōwhai’s attempt to carry a message from the threatened kauri giants to the people. This gentle environmental story captured the judges’ hearts, both for its call to action and the original illustrations. They described the book as a classic in the making, delivering an important message for future generations in an engaging manner.
Wright family foundation Esther Glen award for junior fiction
Charlie Tangaroa and the Creature from the Sea by T K Roxborogh
Development of a port is degrading the ocean and has reignited tension between the Māori gods, throwing both the human world and the realm of the gods into chaos. A ponaturi, a sea goblin, believes that Charlie Tangaroa straddles the two worlds and that only he can restore calm. Somehow Charlie must find a way to reunite the gods and stop the destruction. Believable, gripping and thoroughly enjoyable.
Young Adult Fiction Award
The Pōrangi Boy by Shilo Kino
The voice of the small-town New Zealand teen is effortlessly captured in a hard-hitting story of what it is to be young and on the outside. Even though ‘pōrangi’ (‘crazy’) boy Niko’s life is touched by hardship at school and at home, he never stops fighting to uphold his ideals. Shilo Kino’s deft hand brings to life characters that the reader can easily recognise and love.
Elsie Locke award for Non-Fiction Award
Egg and Spoon: An Illustrated Cookbook by Alexandra Tylee
Equally appealing to the gourmet and child chef alike, Egg and Spoon is full of tasty recipes, and even more palatable illustrations. Clear instructions are paired with intentionally ‘messy’ pictures in this playful cookbook that will have you wanting to dog-ear pages, spill batter, and most of all, cook. Including tips on foraging and kitchen basics, this is a delightful read, even out of the kitchen!
Russell Clark award for illustration
Hare & Ruru by Laura Shallcrass
Hare needs to find quiet. Everywhere there is noise, and so Hare sets off on a journey to find peace and stillness. The theme of mindfulness is captured in a story that encourages readers to consider Hare’s feelings. With good pace, beautifully designed spreads, and stunning images that evoke emotion, this is a gentle book for children and adults who know what it is like to be anxious.
Wright family foundation Te Kura Pounamu award for Te Reo Māori
Best first Book Award
Kōwhai and the Giants written and illustrated by Kate Parker
Based on a shadow box exhibition at the Arataki Visitor Centre in 2016/17, Kate Parker’s illustrations capture a sense of their original three dimensions, using a palette from kauri browns to kōwhai golds. These accompany a poetic text, which tells us of Kōwhai’s attempt to carry a message from the threatened kauri giants to the people. This gentle environmental story captured the judges’ hearts, both for its call to action and the original illustrations. They described the book as a classic in the making, delivering an important message for future generations in an engaging manner.