Publisher's synopsis
From two of our most talented picture-book creators comes this celebration of things that can’t be destroyed by bombs or fire. A haunting and beautiful tale of the power of words, the importance of stories and the resilience of the human spirit.
When the enemy bombed the library, everything burned.
As war rages, Peter and his father flee their home, taking with them a treasure box that holds something more precious than jewels. They journey through mud and rain and long cold nights, and soon their survival becomes more important than any possessions they carry.
But as the years go by, Peter never forgets the treasure box, and one day he returns to find it…
Awards
- Short-listed in 2013 Queensland Literary Awards (Children’s Book Award)
- Notable Book in 2014 CBC Book of the Year (Picture Book)
- Short-listed in 2014 CBC Book of the Year (Picture Book)
Illustrator
Click here to read more about Freya Blackwood.
Margaret Wild was born in South Africa and came to Australia in 1972. She has been a journalist on newspapers and magazines, and she worked as a book editor in children’s publishing for sixteen years, responsible for managing and commissioning a large range of titles. She lives in Sydney and now writes full-time.
Margaret has written more than 70 books for children. Her books are published around the world and have won numerous awards.
Freya Blackwood was born in 1975 in Edinburgh, Scotland and grew up in Orange in NSW, Australia. Before she became a children’s book illustrator, she worked as a special effects artist, notably working on The Lord of the Rings trilogy from 2001 to 2003.
She began illustrating children’s book in 2002. Her stunning and iconic illustrations perfectly capture the warmth and complexity of growing up. While warm and classic, her style has a unique quality that renders her work instantly recognisable. Her work has captured international attention and a swag of awards and nominations. These include the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal (2010), which is the UK’s most prestigious award for children’s illustration, and the CBCA Picture Book of the Year Award – Early Childhood (2007).
Her most recent books are Maudie and Bear (2010), Harry and Hopper (2009), Her Mother’s Face (2009) and Amy and Louis (2006). Freya lives in Orange, NSW, with her daughter, Ivy.
Visit her website: http://www.freyablackwood.com.au/
