Minister for the Arts' Prize for Books for Young Readers and Children

Winner

Digger Digs Down by Johanna Bell, illustrated by Huni Melissa Bolliger (University of Queensland Press)

Judges’ comments:

Digger Digs Down, written by Johanna Bell and illustrated by Huni Melissa Bolliger, is an enchanting book set to captivate younger readers. When the lively and curious Digger is left alone, readers and listeners join the dog on a journey of discovery and imagination. Digger does what a dog knows best, digging down and digging deep, into a world of wonders. The story is brought to life through the synergy of text and illustrations, with playful sounds, alliteration, and inventive text placement enhancing the book’s philosophical undertones. Deceptively simple, yet deeply engaging, the book shows the relationship between Digger and their human companion. Initially sad to be separated, the return of Digger’s human friend prompts a new adventure as they disappear underground to explore the unknown together. High production values and dynamic storytelling invite readers to imagine, explore, and revel in the joys of creativity. This book is a celebration of imagination, curiosity, and the power of discovery which may lead to new ways of seeing the world.

• Amazing Animal Journeys by Jennifer Cossins (Lothian Children’s Books, 2022)
• Digger Digs Down by Johanna Bell, illustrated by Huni Melissa Bolliger (University of Queensland Press, 2024)
• Feathered Alphabet by Monica Reeve (Forty South Publishing, 2023)

Judges’ comments

The shortlisted books capture a broad audience, from the earliest reader who is just discovering language and stories, through to teens who are curious about the wonders of their natural world. In these beautifully produced books, captivating writing in fiction and non-fiction, combined with vivid illustrations, offer much to delight and satisfy younger readers.

Amazing Animal Journeys by Jennifer Cossins

Amazing Animal Journeys follows the complex migratory patterns of a range of creatures from large mammals to tiny insects. The book highlights the challenges they face along the way such as climate change and habitat destruction. Stunning design and illustration combine with clear, engaging text to make this a book of choice for readers with inquiring minds and a passion for nature.

Digger Digs Down by Johanna Bell, illustrated by Huni Melissa Bolliger

Playful language and vibrant artwork make this seemingly simple story a standout picture book for independent or shared reading. Readers join an exuberant Digger as he digs deep, finding a world of wonder. This is a book to be read again and again, with each reading revealing something delightful, unexpected or new.

Feathered Alphabet by Monica Reeve

A fresh take on the alphabet book, this lively collection of Australian birds from the albatross to the zebra finch immediately appeals through bold, detailed illustrations. The journey of discovery continues in supplementary pages that provide information for budding young bird-lovers and handy hints for parents on how to use the book to support their child’s literacy development.

Longlist

The longlists for the Tasmanian Literary Awards were released on 18 December 2024.

Follow the links below to view the longlisted books or view the list as a PDF.

• Amazing Animal Journeys by Jennifer Cossins (Lothian Children’s Books, 2022)
• Before the Mountain had a Name by Fiona Levings (Forty South Publishing, 2024)
• Digger Digs Down by Johanna Bell, illustrated by Huni Melissa Bolliger (University of Queensland Press, 2024)
• Feathered Alphabet by Monica Reeve (Forty South Publishing, 2023)
• Spellhound: A Dragons of Hallow Book by Lian Tanner (Allen & Unwin, 2023)
• The Letterbox Tree by Rebecca Lim and Kate Gordon (Walker Books Australia, 2023)
• Too Many Tigers by Monica Reeve (Forty South Publishing, 2024)
• When You're a Boy by Blake Nuto (Affirm Press, 2023)