James Foley book recognised for message of peace

Bigfoot vs Yeti by James Foley has been shortlisted for the 2025 Children’s Peace Literature Award. This biennial prize is awarded to Australian authors for children’s books that encourage peaceful resolution of conflict or promote peace at the global, local or interpersonal level.

Administered by Psychologists for Peace (SA), over 100 books were judged by a panel of eight psychologists and children’s literature specialists to create a shortlist of just six, with the award going to David Metzenthen for The Truth of It.

The judges described Bigfoot vs Yeti as being about two young people falling in love and breaking a pattern of hostility to come up with something new. ‘Easily relatable for kids, this is a quaint, yet realistic monster-based tale describing how wars and conflicts are waged and maintained. As in reality, some accommodate the new information whereas others return to their original prejudices and actions.’

James Foley thanked the organisers for recognising his book. James said, ‘It’s wonderful to have my little fable amongst such good company! I hope that the book provides a little light and hope (and laughter) to readers.’