10 Speak Out
October 2014
Speech Pathology Australia
2014 book of the year
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Best Books for Language and Literacy Development
The Speech Pathology Australia Book of the Year Awards raise awareness of the role speech
pathologists play in assisting people of all ages to develop their language and literacy skills.
The wi nners
birth to 3 years
I’m a Dirty Dinosaur
Written by Janeen Brian and Ann James
I’m a Dirty Dinosaur
offers such a fun way to talk to little children about why they, as well as little dinosaurs, must wash. The book creates
a perfect opportunity for dialogue between parent and child. The text and illustrations ooze with fun and demand to be shared with a small
child. A lovely repetition of words is enhanced by a choice of different sized and coloured print. The book contains a tremendous use of
repetition, rhyme and rhythm; and language that marries words with movement. The rhyming and rhythm of the language in this book
encourages phonological awareness. Repetition of the last verb in each verse, in colourful text, encourages children to ‘say it together’ and to
become familiar with the text. The words contain ‘difficult’ blends such as ‘st’, ‘sn’, ‘sl’, which provides good oral and aural training. The text’s
repetition encourages children to join in. With rounded edges for young hands and beautiful illustrations that bring this book to life, this is an ideal
introduction to reading for ‘little people’.
“Bruno has never been to the beach before. And he can’t wait. He is going for a swim in the sea – the big blue sea!” Bruno’s first trip to the sea is
full of adventure, excitement, misgivings and new experiences. The language of
A Swim in the Sea
is beautifully descriptive and the pictures draw
the reader in by matching the action with the story. The use of onomatopoeia adds a level of texture to the story and ensures the book appeals to
both adults and children alike. Children readily identify with the characters and relate to their experiences and emotions. The story has a strong
narrative format and comes to life through imaginative ideas and strong descriptive language. The book’s wonderful pictures connect the story
with the characters. This book and its story are ideal for any child about to commence school.
3 to 5 years
A Swim in the Sea
Written by Sue Whiting and Meredith Thomas
Silver Buttons
is a gentle narrative that impacts on all readers. The book has a lovely quiet, steady rhythm throughout. The language on each
page is simple, with the illustrations allowing further discussion about the people and community around the characters.
Silver Buttons
has
a definitive beginning, middle and end that encourages strong predictive and problem solving skills for its young readers. It has characters
that children are able to identify with, as well as diverse characters from the wider community. The book’s language is age appropriate and
descriptive without being too complex. Pictures and descriptive text illustrate all that might happen in a moment, encouraging readers to explore
possibilities. The book’s wonderful illustrations provide a wealth of opportunity for further discussion and oral language development.
Silver
Buttons
is engaging because it has universal appeal for both adults and children.
5 to 8 years
Silver Buttons
Written and illustrated by Bob Graham
8 to 10 years
The Adventures of Sir Roderick the Not-Very Brave
Written by James O’Loghlin
This book has a highly engaging tone and a narrative that makes it hard to put down. The characters are well developed and easy for children to
identify with.
The Adventures of Sir Roderick the Not-Very Brave
is a fantasy book and long at 378 pages. But the plot’s twists and turns keep the
reader enthralled throughout. The character of ‘Sir Roderick’ is funny, age appropriate, and takes the reader on his personal journey. Boys and girls
alike will relate to him and put themselves in his shoes, while enjoying the journey. The book conjures up wonderful imagery and provides some
challenging vocabulary to extend any young reader. The story allows the reader to explore the theme of family ties and secrets against a humorous
backdrop.
Deadly D & Justice Jones
is a beautifully written book with engaging illustrations. The book’s language is perfectly suited for its intended audience
(teenage indigenous males) and this is reflected in its use of age appropriate slang, indigenous specific vocabulary and lingo. The realistic language
is both engaging and humorous.
Deadly D & Justice Jones
strongly promotes indigenous culture in a youth-friendly layout. The book addresses
important issues for its intended audience, including identity and cultural differences, bullying, friendship, moving to a new school, and the importance
of team work. Family links and geographical references also feature strongly in the narrative. The book’s short chapters help to keep the story moving
at a good pace.
indigenous children
Deadly D & Justice Jones – Making the Team
Written by Scott Prince and Dave Hartley
