I was thrilled to attend the opening of the Are We There Yet? touring exhibition at Civic Library here in Canberra this week - showcasing the multi-step creation of Alison Lester's iconic picture book. This was some amazing experience - to see Alison's original work and all her inspiration up close, was glorious.
From handwritten notes to photos of her family's trip around Australia (which inspired the book) to her draft illustrations and finals - it was a very special thing to see. A group of school children also attended the ceremony, which was introduced by Vanessa Little, Director Libraries ACT. Vanessa then presented MLA Mary Porter, who 'opened' the exhibition by untying a big red ribbon around the book.
Her little helper was Maia, an Are We There Yet? aficionado, who borrowed this book so many times, her school librarian had to ask her to stop so other kids could borrow it! Maia thoroughly entertained me by commentating the book's text as we stopped at image after image.
Congrats to all the ACT library staff for completing yet another National Year of Reading event with such panache. Enjoy this peek at a very special exhibit!
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| Mary Porter 'opens' the book exhibition with Maia |
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| Me and a fellow group of book-loving kids |
