Sea Dog by Claire Saxby has arrived!

Last week end, I had the fun of attending the launch of Claire Saxby’s latest book, Sea Dog at the 2013 Williamstown Literary Festival. Claire and I bonded years ago over stories and children. While my work focus is primarily on oral language and growing stories for telling, Claire’s love of books and written language has led to the creation of numerous beautiful picture books. Her talents are well acknowledged. There Was an Old Sailor, illustrator Cassandra Allen (Walker Books) received the SCBWI Chrystal Kite Award 2011 and was shortlisted for the Speech Pathology Award 2011 and again at the 3rd Korean Picture Book Award! The Carrum Sailing Club was featured on playschool last year, bringing Claire’s book and Christina Booth’s illustrations into thousands of homes.

I’m a huge fan of Claire’s work but the accolades that are coming her way are an objective measure from parents, educators and most importantly, children as to the beauty of her words and imagination.

I’m really looking forward to Big Red Kangaroo, illustrated by Graham Byrne (Walker Books) due in August 2013.

Claire has a website where you can contact her and read all about her latest projects HERE

Andy Griffiths did the honours and launched Sea Dog to much hilarity.