The Wilderness Society recognises Fremantle Press authors Ian Mutch and Cristy Burne on annual shortlist
More and More and More by Ian Mutch and Off The Track by Cristy Burne are shortlisted for the Environment Award for Children’s Literature. The award, which is in its 25th year, honours books promoting a love of nature in children through reading and stories.
Cristy Burne’s Off the Track follows phoneless and fuming Harry as his mum, her best mate, and her best mate’s daughter drag him out for a weekend adventure on the Bibbulmun Track. Cristy said, ‘I wrote Off The Track to inspire tech-addicted children and families to rediscover the magic and fun of being together in the bush, so I’m absolutely over the moon to have it recognised by the Wilderness Society in this way. I’m passionate about our planet, and sharing stories is a powerful way of sharing my passion with our next generation of leaders.’
Author and illustrator Ian Mutch said he was rapt to have his debut picture book on the shortlist. More and More and More tells the story of Henry Harper, who travels through space collecting random things before the discovery of a new friend teaches him the value of people over things.
Ian said, ‘I feel that the story has a timely message in today’s world of overconsumption. I also think Henry Harper will be thrilled to collect a sticker on the cover.’
The Environment Award for Children’s Literature has been running since 1994 and was established by the Wilderness Society as a way of awarding ‘outstanding children’s books that promote a love of nature, and a sense of caring and responsibility for the environment’.
The winner of the 2019 award will be announced later in the year.
More and More and More by Ian Mutch and Off the Track by Cristy Burne are available online at www.fremantlepress.com.au and at all good bookstores.
