Why “Amira’s Suitcase” should win the CBCA Book of the Year : Early Childhood

Amira’s Suitcase    

We believe that the book “Amira’s Suitcase” written by Vikki Conley and illustrated by Nicky Johnston should win the CBCA Book of the Year: Early Childhood category. We have chosen this book because of the following reasons.

Firstly, the book is suitable for the zero to six-year-old age group because children can identify with the theme of a new beginning symbolised by the growing plant.

Secondly, we know that good readers can make text connections.  Readers of this book are able to make text to text connections when reading this story.  For example, on the last page of the book, children might connect the illustration of the giant plant growing up into the clouds with another story, “Jack and the Beanstalk”.

Lastly, the illustrator has selected colours which create mood and link in with the themes.  The illustrator chose the colour green for the plant which gives the reader a sense of hope and promise.  The orange and yellow of the buildings and the end pages gives a sense of desire and joy.

“Amira’s Suitcase” should win the CBCA Book of the Year: Early Childhood category because it is very suitable for the target age group, has text to text connection and has an amazing use of colours.