Tuesday 30 March 2010

Books for Fun

There has been considerably more focus, or so it seems, recently on books that make us laugh. Children, and adults are spoilt in the modern world for there are so many options providing entertainment from the television and films to PlayStation's and other computer platforms it is not surprising in some ways that books are often considered as the last choice for entertainment. Yet books are the perfect option, they don't take up too much room - unless you have lots and lots (and in my case even more than that!), they are instantly accessible, can be accessed and will and demand only your attention!
Books that make us laugh make us happy and it is scientifically proven that being happy and laughing is good for us, so its reading, so why not combine the two?
Perhaps we need to coin a new phrase of encouragement - a book a day.... what can we say? Suggestions are very welcome!
Laughing when we read, even smirking or giggling to ourselves is on of the great pleasures in life. Books do not need to be worth and hard work they just need to be fun and entertaining, taking us into other places with other people, sharing hopes and dreams as well as sadness and sorrow. Humour can actually help children understand some difficult and challenging topics so its power should not be underestimated. Funny books lift the heart mind and spirit and give us plenty to be occupied with. Reading is an innocent past time that can be shared or kept to oneself and taken almost anywhere. A book is for enjoyment so why not make it a funny book.
If you are stuck for ideas then why not try the Roald Dahl Funny Prize winners or perhaps have a look at the recommendations from the Blue Peter Book Awards. There are always plenty of suggestions in this very Blog and at the Armadillo website too - just to get you started!
I would love to hear your comments on this and any suggestions on a new phrase may even be featured and win a prize! Get those thinking caps on and get giggling!

Wednesday 24 March 2010

Hans Christan Andersen Award Winners

Well I have been absent for a couple of weeks and so much has happened it is difficult to know where to start. However the thrilling news that David Almond has won the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Author Award must surely be the best place!


This award is probably the most prestigious of the international children's literature awards that can be given to an author. It is presented bi-annually and although the announcement has been made in Bologna at the annual book fair it will be in Spain that David will receive his medal.


The medal and award are given by IBBY, the International Board on Books for Young People, to an author and also an illustrator - that category was won by Jutta Bauer, a German illustrator - whose work is considered to have made a considerable and lasting contribution to children's literature.


David Almond is an author who has been contributing to children's literature for many years with his special combination of magic and realism and one of his best known books and his very first, Skellig, which won the Carnegie medal is an influential and much loved story. What is particularly special about his writing is the way in which he can capture the hearts and minds of his intended audience - children - yet also adults too. David has written a number of other titles, all of which continue to challenge and inspire his readers.


I am sure readers of Armadillo and this blog will join with me in extending congratulations to both David and Jutta on their achievements.