On Sunday 11 November, Raumati South Memorial Hall was almost filled to the brim with parents and children celebrating the launch of Book Island’s first three children’s titles, Sammy and the Skyscraper Sandwich, Bernie and Flora, and Sir Mouse to the Rescue.
There were lots of
exciting activities based on the books, including sword- and princess
hat-making, colouring-in competitions, and – what was undoubtedly the highlight
of the launch – the construction of a skyscraper sandwich out of recyclable
materials.
With the help of Simon
Calcinai and Jake Roos from the Kapiti Coast District Council, the children
built a giant sandwich out of cardboard, cans and egg cartons that nearly went through
the roof – just like Sammy’s in Sammy and
the Skyscraper Sandwich.
To celebrate the
books’ Belgian origins, delicious crepes and hot chocolate were also served to
all the guests and proved a big hit. All cups and plates from the event will be
composted, which means that this launch was a Zero Waste Event.
For children’s book
publisher and owner of Book Island Greet Pauwelijn, the launch couldn't have been
more successful. “We were absolutely blown away by the amount of people who
turned up to support us. Our concept of turning reading into a
multi-dimensional experience has worked out really well. Luckily we had the
help of 17 volunteers – without them this launch just wouldn't have been
possible.”
Book Island’s Facebook
page has been inundated with messages from those who loved the launch.
“Beautiful books and
delightfully busy launch” – Judith Lofley
“Fantastic book launch! Thanks Book
Island.” – Debbie Cowens
Sammy and the Skyscraper Sandwich, Bernie and Flora, and Sir Mouse to the Rescue will also be
launched at The Children's Bookshop in Kilbirnie on Monday 19 November at
7.30pm.
Here, publisher Greet
Pauwelijn will be giving a talk about her journey to Book Island and Belgian
children’s book illustrations. Join her for a glass of wine, nibbles and a
(mini-) Skyscraper Sandwich.
1 comment:
It was a truly zingy experience - best children's book launch I've ever been to! The books are beautifully produced, original tales, in regular demand in this household.
(P.S. I am not being paid to say this!!)
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