2022 Awards

PICTURE BOOK AWARD

Bumblebee Grumblebee

Written and illustrated by David Elliot

In this deceptively simple board book with irresistibly cute illustrations and a surprisingly satisfying resolution, everyday moments of childish innocence are brought to mischievous life with wordplay to delight children and adults alike. Bumblebee Grumblebee is a warm, captivating story that will win over the hearts and imagination of the whole family.

Lion Guards the Cake

Published by: Scholastic New Zealand

Written and illustrated by Ruth Paul

Mischief meets imagination in this quirky tale of a proud lion going beyond the call of duty to guard the family cake ... with questionable motives, and even more questionable success. Lion Guards the Cake is a delightful picture book that ticks all the boxes, with a cohesive storyline, flawless rhyme and whimsical illustrations.

My Cat Can See Ghosts

Published by: Beatnik Publishing

Written and illustrated by Emily Joe

In this fresh, funny and imaginative story full of feline personality, the vagaries of cat behaviour are shown in bold illustrations that leap, bound and bristle across pages, while creative placement of the simple rhyming text adds a very cat-like element of chaos. My Cat Can See Ghosts will appeal to cat lovers, and the cat wary, alike.

The Eight Gifts of Te Wheke

Published by: Huia Publishers

Written by Steph Matuku and illustrated by Laya Mutton-Rogers

The Eight Gifts of Te Wheke integrates te ao Māori with metaphorical links to pūrākau of Kupe's own battle with an octopus. The fluid text and luscious illustrations crammed with idiosyncratic detail draw readers into this darkly engaging parable – as effortlessly as Te Wheke drags Tamati's sister Aria beneath the waves.

The Greatest Haka Festival on Earth

Published by: Huia Publishers

Written by Pania Tahau-Hodges and illustrated by Story Hemi-Morehouse

Readers are invited to join haka-freak Nan and her extended whānau as they experience the sensory overload of Te Matatini. A vibrant, rambunctious joy of a book, The Greatest Haka Festival on Earth captures the craziness of the festival, with brightly detailed illustrations, wry humour, a hilarious glossary and mischievous twins to keep readers on their toes.

WRIGHT FAMILY FOUNDATION ESTHER GLEN AWARD FOR JUNIOR FICTION

Amorangi and Millie's Trip Through Time

Published by: Huia Publishers

Written by Lauren Keenan

Amorangi and Millie travel back in time to find their mum, who is trapped in the past. After scary experiences with a hōkioi and a volcanic eruption, they learn what they must do. But time is running out. Where or when is Mum? An exciting time-travel adventure, emphasising the importance of whānau, whakapapa, and understanding New Zealand’s past.

Spark Hunter

Published by: The Cuba Press

Written by Sonya Wilson

Following mysterious moving lights, Nissa strays from her school camp in the Fiordland bush. As she is drawn into another realm, a vast search for her begins. She has been chosen for an important mission in a world of ancient creatures that need help. Spark Hunter is a fast-moving, original and informative book that deals with themes of conservation and courage.

The Memory Thief

Published by: Puffin, Penguin Random House

Written by Leonie Agnew

One night in a city garden, a girl meets a troll. He’d like a friend and she’d like help, so they make a deal that changes both their lives. This is an imaginative, polished and thought-provoking novel, with important themes of family, memories, and being careful what you wish for – and a nail-biting and unexpected conclusion.

The Tomo

Published by: OneTree House

Written by Mary-anne Scott

When Phil has to stay on a farm while his dad receives treatment, he is thankful that he can take his dad’s beloved dog Blue with him. Phil’s boss dismisses both Phil and Blue as useless, and when they get a chance to prove themselves, disaster strikes: Blue plunges into the Tomo. Tension rises along with the danger, creating a gripping page-turner.

The Uprising: The Mapmakers in Cruxcia

Published by: Gecko Press

Written by Eirlys Hunter and illustrated by Kirsten Slade

As they search for their father, the Santander siblings are led to the land of Cruxcia, which holds clues but is terribly dangerous. Using their unique mapmaking skills, the Santanders help kick off a rebellion against a tyrant and rescue their father. A rollicking read, with a message that great things can be achieved when working together.

YOUNG ADULT FICTION AWARD

Coastwatcher

Published by: Puffin, Penguin Random House

Written by David Hill

It’s 1943 and Frank Benson has joined the war effort in Operation Pacific, spying on the Japanese from the coastlines of the Solomon Islands. When he and his friends find themselves trapped in the jungle, Frank must act quickly to stay hidden, stay silent, and stay alive. David Hill’s tight and accomplished writing creates a tense story about a moment in history not often recounted.

Displaced

Published by: Walker Books Australia

Written by Cristina Sanders

Eloise and her family leave their home in Cornwall for 1870s colonial New Zealand, and what they find there is struggle far greater than they could have imagined. As Eloise fights to keep her family together, she battles intolerance and the restrictions placed on women’s lives. Displaced is a moving, beautifully written story of courage, family and first love.

Katipo Joe: Wolf's Lair

Published by: Scholastic New Zealand

Written by Brian Falkner

Kiwi spy ‘Katipo’ Joe St George goes undercover in the heart of the Nazi spider web, where he must use everything he has to fool those close to Hitler if he is to complete his mission and bring down the monster. It’s a fast-paced story, packed with action, humanity, and the cruel devastation of war. Readers won’t be able to put the book down.

Learning to Love Blue

Published by: Record Press

Written by Saradha Koirala

Paige has left school, her band, her family and Wellington behind to strike out alone in the Melbourne music scene. She’s following in the footsteps of her musical heroes, and it helps that her high school crush Spike lives in Melbourne – but will she fit into his new life? This is a joyous, relatable story of finding independence in a new city.

Violet Black

Published by: Penguin, Penguin Random House

Written by Eileen Merriman

After being struck down with deadly M-fever, Violet emerges from a coma and discovers she has a strange connection with a fellow patient, Ethan. When new doctors appear to run more tests, Violet and Ethan realise they have to fight more than the virus. The first book in a gripping trilogy, Violet Black is a high-octane ride of survival and betrayal.

ELSIE LOCKE AWARD FOR NON-FICTION

Atua: Māori Gods and Heroes

Published by: Puffin, Penguin Random House

Written and illustrated by Gavin Bishop

Told from a distinctly Māori worldview, this book gives familiar and not-so-familiar characters a fresh, contemporary voice that will resonate with readers. With stunning production values that perfectly complement and enhance the powerfully emotive illustrations, Atua is an instant classic, a ‘must have’ for every New Zealand household, a taonga.

Draw Some Awesome

Published by: Upstart Press

Written and illustrated by Donovan Bixley

Draw Some Awesome takes readers on a visually stimulating, constantly amusing and comprehensively informative journey across the drawing galaxy. From first squiggles to using perspective and shading, step by step, shape by shape, with an emphasis on having fun, this is an accessible and inspirational guide for kids of all abilities.

How Do I Feel? A Dictionary of Emotions for Children

Published by: Wildling Books

Written by Rebekah Lipp and illustrated by Craig Phillips

This book describes over 60 emotions in a clear and relatable way, using simple, vivid illustrations. Children will recognise themselves, and will learn how to identify and understand their emotions. Importantly, emotions aren’t presented as being good or bad in themselves — rather they’re simply part of growing up, creating opportunities to learn and grow.

Kia Kaha: A Storybook of Māori Who Changed the World

Published by: Puffin, Penguin Random House

Written by Stacey Morrison and Jeremy Sherlock

Kia Kaha is a powerful collection of stories of Māori trailblazers from every walk of life and generation, whose insightful short biographies present snapshots of the lives of Māori who have achieved remarkable feats. This is a celebration of Māoritanga, which will offer both inspiration and affirmation to the tamariki and rangatahi of Aotearoa.

Why is That Spider Dancing?

Published by: Te Papa Press

Written by Simon Pollard and Phil Sirvid

This fun, comprehensive and revealing book about Aotearoa’s amazing eight-legged marvels will be a source of wonder for young arachno-lovers. With clear, easy to understand text, stunning close-up photos, and a helpful glossary that doesn’t take itself too seriously, Why is That Spider Dancing? will weave a web of fascination around readers.

RUSSELL CLARK AWARD FOR ILLUSTRATION

Atua: Māori Gods and Heroes

Published by: Puffin, Penguin Random House

Illustrated and written by Gavin Bishop

Atua: Māori Gods and Heroes is an invitation to learn more about te ao Māori, the Māori world, with illustrations that not only stimulate the eyes but also the emotions of people who choose to enter this world. The depictions of atua have a distinct authenticity and a world of discovery awaits the reader.

Mokopuna Matatini

Published by: Huia Publishers

Illustrated by Story Hemi-Morehouse

Nau mai ki taku whare karioi! Welcome to the House of Entertainment! The magic of kapa haka is experienced through the eyes of a whānau Māori and colour is used fiercely and vibrantly to capture the excitement and joy of Te Matatini and kapa haka itself. The depictions of pukana and haka will invigorate the soul.

Moose the Pilot

Published by: Puffin, Penguin Random House

Illustrated and written by Kimberly Andrews

Readers travel with Moose as he delivers parcels to friends in faraway places, and the illustrations also deliver, with their attention to detail, lovable characters and stunning landscapes. The vibrant colours and character animations will feed the imaginations of readers, who are invited to go on their own adventures and search the pages for more details.

My Cat Can See Ghosts

Published by: Beatnik Publishing

Illustrated and written by Emily Joe

What is that cat staring at? The answer to this question and more is shared in this delightful story that will have readers thinking about their own cats. From the cover onwards, the illustrations create a tension that is emphasised in the ‘eyes’ and the authentic way in which the cat’s behaviour is captured.

The Eight Gifts of Te Wheke

Published by: Huia Publishers

Illustrated by Laya Mutton-Rogers

Tamati tries everything to save his sister Aria from Te Wheke in this action-packed story of a battle with a huge octopus. The depth of colour and the detail in the images give readers the feeling that they too are being drawn into the realm of Te Wheke, where they will discover the multitude of treasures the octopus has amassed.

WRIGHT FAMILY FOUNDATION TE KURA POUNAMU AWARD FOR TE REO MĀORI

He Wheke Wai Mamangu Au

Published by: Scholastic New Zealand

Written and illustrated by Stephanie Thatcher and translated by Pānia Papa

He Wheke Wai Mamangu Au presents educational facts about the wheke (octopus) in a fun and colourful way for early readers – where it lives, and what makes it unique in its realm. The story and illustrations not only provide interesting information bites, they also will appeal to children’s imaginations, and are elevated by the translator’s use of te reo Māori.

I Waho, i te Moana

Published by: Scholastic New Zealand

Written by Yvonne Morrison, illustrated by Jenny Cooper and translated by Pānia Papa

The many types of taniwha that act as guardians in the moana form the mauri of this story. There is a lovely flow to the reo, and the illustrations bring to life the authenticity of the story and the creatures of the moana. I Waho, i te Moana incorporates layers of educational content that encourage growth in pāngarau (mathematics), and in te reo capability.

Ki te Moe Aotearoa

Published by: Upstart Press

Written and illustrated by Donovan Bixley and translated by Darryn Joseph

Ki te Moe Aotearoa presents a colourful interpretation of what happens at bedtime. Children will be engaged by the use of onomatopoeia for literary effect, and the illustrations encourage them to explore further. While the reo may be challenging for younger tamariki, the storyline provides an opportunity for adults to help their young ones expand and elevate their reo.

Mokopuna Matatini

Published by: Huia Publishers

Written by Pania Tahau-Hodges and illustrated by Story Hemi-Morehouse

Mokopuna Matatini shows an insider knowledge of the world of kapa haka – like the early-to-bed and early-to-rise mantra, and the stampede to find a spot to watch a favourite team. The illustrations are excellent caricatures of real life kaihaka, and the reo captures the essence of Te Matatini, allowing children to experience a small part of that world.

Te Hipo Huna

Published by: Gecko Press

Written by Juliette MacIver, illustrated by Sarah Davis and translated by Karena Kelly

Te Hipo Huna is a quirky story about the innocence and mischievousness (or haututu) of children on a school trip, and their humorous reactions as they seek the ‘Hipo’. The reo is like a jingle, with a rhythmic flow that children will enjoy – and they will also find hidden meanings within the story.

NZSA BEST FIRST BOOK AWARD

Hine and the Tohunga Portal

Published by: Huia Publishers

Written by Ataria Sharman

Hine and her brother Hōhepa are plunged into a world of magical creatures, where generational family bonds thread across time. This is a well-crafted and thrilling debut novel, which combines an action-packed adventure with a rich backdrop of te reo Māori and Māoritanga woven seamlessly throughout and made effortlessly accessible to all.

I am Autistic

Published by: Allen & Unwin

Written and illustrated by Chanelle Moriah

I am Autistic adeptly contextualises the autistic experience, creating understanding for all. This interactive and educational guide uses a journal-style format, tips, explanations, real life examples, spaces to write thoughts and checklists as tools to assist in understanding and affirming what young people with autism may be experiencing. It exudes insight and kindness.

Mokopuna Matatini

Published by: Huia Publishers

Written by Pania Tahau-Hodges and illustrated by Story Hemi-Morehouse

The whole whānau race for the coveted best spot in front of Te Matatini performance stage, and with a flurry of energy and anticipation the emotion and vibrancy of kapa haka begins. Ihi, wehi and wana are conveyed throughout in the pukana (facial expressions) of participants. A charming celebration of an iconic Aotearoa event, packed with humour, fun and feeling.

My Cat Can See Ghosts

Published by: Beatnik Publishing

Written and illustrated by Emily Joe

Mischievous cats claw you into the story, with hair-raising antics that mirror authentic feline behaviour, and that will have cat owners wondering what their cats really see. My Cat Can See Ghosts is a sweet, fun, and imaginative rhyming story with a clever economy of words, well-considered combinations of images and text, and a personality that shines.

Spark Hunter

Published by: The Cuba Press

Written by Sonya Wilson

Alone, afraid and confused, Nissa is lost in the Fiordland forest. Curiosity made her follow the sparks of light, but is her mind playing tricks? As hope of rescue diminishes, Nissa realises she is not the only one in danger. Spark Hunter is an accomplished, captivating adventure story that transports readers to a world of fantastic creatures and endangered species.