By Rachel Lawson, Publisher at Gecko Press.
Every book is a careful process of translation, editing, design, layout, proofreading and printing — with small and big decisions from all of those involved and at every stage that change how the book will be for its readers. Here are ten decisions that I’ll remember from the year we’ve had.
Louise Cambau, South Ken Kids Festival curator I have been curating the South Ken Kids Festival for the past 6 years. This is a Franco-British children’s book festival organised yearly at the Institut Français in London, celebrating 25 years in 2022, under Sir Quentin Blake’s patronage. Amongst other things, the Institut organises literary events throughout… Read more »
What led you to create Simon’s world? Once I had Simon, everything clicked, and I was no longer working with the abstract idea of writing a book or making beautiful images. Books became my second language and Simon an extension of myself. I had a new freedom to play with words and images. I allowed myself to write the way I wanted to.
For the release of Gotcha!, Clotilde Perrin took over our Instagram for a look inside her studio and at her work in progress. She shared images and video of original artworks and a bookcase bursting with books about monsters and fairy tales.
To help you find an extra special book this Christmas, we have matched some children to some particular Gecko Press books, including some guaranteed-to-please favourites.
Free comprehensive teacher notes for Years 1 to 10 available for download.
These teacher notes are based on the new Aotearoa New Zealand Histories curriculum being implemented in 2023 and written by Defyd Williams, who was part of the Ministry of Education reference group for the curriculum.
Juliette MacIver is a picture-book writer and mother of four, who lives in Wellington, New Zealand.
What is the origin of the Grizzled Grist story? A good friend of mine asked his nine-year-old son, Jonny, what he would like to be a master of—the best in the world!
Come along to this year’s Verb Readers & Writers Festival in Wellington and enjoy two Gecko Press family events on 5–6 November.
Listen to author Juliette MacIver read her book The Grizzled Grist Does Not Exist, and create a glorious mess inspired by Free Kid to Good Home, read in both English and Japanese.
BY NATHAN LUFF, MANAGER OF CHILDREN’S AND YA PROGRAMME, SYDNEY WRITER’S FESTIVAL, AUSTRALIA
We asked Nathan Luff for a list of books he likes to recommend that feature theatrical content. As well as being a published children’s book author, Nathan also works part time as a teacher specialising in creative writing and performing arts.
Clotilde Perrin is an illustrator and author living in Strasbourg, France. We asked her to tell us more about her new release, Gotcha!
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