Children’s Book Council Branch President launches Jake’s Gigantic List

21st July 2009

Jan Nicholls, WA Branch President of the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) is set to launch Jake’s Gigantic List by Ken Spillman at the State Library of Western Australia on Monday 3 August.

Spillman’s book, which was illustrated by talented new artist, Chris Nixon, is dedicated to the CBCA for being “so tireless in promoting the wonder of books”.

Spillman said that as an author he’d met a lot of great people who worked hard to excite kids about books including parents, teachers, librarians, and members of the Children’s Book Council of Australia.

“In Jake’s Gigantic List, the character of Aunty Lyn represents all those people, while Jake represents all the kids they work so hard for – this one’s for them!” said Spillman.

In addition to the launch of Spillman’s new novel for younger children, Joanna Andrew, Senior Subject Specialist for Children at the State Library of Western Australia will host the Perth launch of Crocodile Cake by Palo Morgan and a month-long exhibition of illustrations by Chris Nixon.

Nixon whose work appears in both Jake’s Gigantic List and Crocodile Cake will exhibit original drawings and finished artworks in ‘The Place’ the library’s recently opened area dedicated to children’s literature.

Nixon said visitors should expect to see colourful, fun and sometimes silly illustrations. He said visitors to ‘The Place’ would gain an insight into the evolution of the artwork for each book.

“I have attempted to illustrate both books in such a way as to capture the imagination and wonder from a child’s perspective,” said Nixon.

‘The Place’ in the State Library of Western Australia will host the launches on Monday 3 August 2009 from 6-8pm. The evening will include readings and live music by The Lonely Brothers. Nixon’s work will be on display at the library throughout August and during Children’s Book Week (22-28 August).

Chris Nixon and Ken Spillman are available for interview.

For more information please contact Claire Miller, cmiller@fremantlepress.com.au