Who:Thames & Hudson
What:Curtain Up!: Behind the Scenes at the Royal Opera House
Why:
The panel were completely smitten with this beautifully designed book which brings the magical experience of live theatre and ballet alive. The generous full-spread layouts stunning hand-drawn illustrations and clever use of texture made this a wonderfully tactile and immersive reading experience that couldn’t fail to ignite a curiosity into the arts.
I couldn't love this more! What a wonderful way to introduce children to the theatre! Beautifully illustrated!
Totally beautiful, an escape into the magical, mystical atmosphere on stage. I felt like I was in the royal box just flicking through these pages. Wonderful- thank you!
A beautiful book that takes children behind the curtain of the iconic Royal Opera House, from the costume department to the orchestra pit. A magical behind-the-scenes tour, full of detail, beautifully presented and illustrated. A real treasure - as magical as being there.
Who:Weldon Owen Children's Books
What:The Extraordinary Book That Invents Itself
Why:
Our judges loved this highly original book which appeals to the mad inventor in all of us! With more than 30 ingenious inventions to cut out and create with simple, clear instructions and an easy-to-understand break down of the engineering principles behind it, this book gives children an exciting window into the world of rockets, code-breaking, bionic hands and so much more. Mini engineers and budding inventors will love this book.
Absolutely fantastic, I know as a kid I'd have had my mitts all over this (still did as an adult!) Informative, eye-catching, enticing and different.
Lovely looking book jam packed with fun activities. I love the vintage style illustrations.
An excellent package that blends creativity, design, environmental science and engineering in a thoroughly engaging way. This will be great for all the family to get involved in!
Who:Thames & Hudson
What:GLOW: The wild wonders of bioluminescence
Why:
Everyone was drawn to this eye-catching book that really does live up to its fabulously enticing cover. Luminous illustrations made with UV printing gave a hyperreal visual experience of trips through underwater canyons discovering the creatures with a natural glow, while the balance of factual information made the book as fascinating to read as it to look at.
All in all, a super exciting book that kids will be drawn to and will love seeing the glow on their nightstands!
This book just makes you want to pick it up! The luminous illustrations make this a truly immersive and unique reading experience.
Lovely book to bring science to life for children!
A great book, that’s not about dinosaurs, for adventure and nature loving kids.
Who:Thames & Hudson
What:The Big Book of Nature Art
Why:
Our judges loved this bold and eye-catching book, packed with easy art activities inspired by nature, from bestselling author Yuval Zommer. The panel was impressed that each of the activities can be achieved in four simple steps using natural and recycled materials from around the home, meaning no stressful scurrying about for hard to find creative ingredients!
A great resource for finding ways to distract kids from screens.
Loved this! Really simple but wonderful ideas for getting creative with kids but also getting them outside and thinking for themselves.
I was very excited to see Yuval's entry as I remembered his work being standout last year- this did not disappoint!
The illustrations are lovely! Very sweet book - kids will love it!
