SpeakOut_October2014_eCopy

2014 book of the year

2014 B o o k o f t h e y e a r a w a r d s 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

The Adventures of Sir Roderick the Not-Very Brave Written by James O’Loghlin

8 to 10 years

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

10 Speak Out October 2014

Speech Pathology Australia