The
Boundless Festival of Australian Children's Literature wound up yesterday with a spectacular author meet-and-greet with Andy Griffiths at the National Library of Australia.
Andy spent a few days in Canberra, visiting schools, lunching, dining and sharing his expertise with a range of lucky people.
Today's event at the NLA was simply glorious. Over 300 people turned up - and to see dozens upon dozens of young kids - especially boys - clutching Andy's books and spending time leafing through the pages while they waited {most patiently!} to have their book signed, was so very special.
I hope the following photos explain just how vital author visits like this are for young kids and the development of a love of reading. Andy is a generous, warm soul whose adoration for kids shines through - and these lucky kids were simply agog at the chance to meet him {+ some adults, too!}.
A huge congratulations to Belle Alderman and her team for this year's inaugural Boundless Festival. If you didn't get to this time, I hope you'll have a chance to indulge in this glorious event next year - please spread the word.
Happy reading - and perusing!
- Tania McCartney
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| Andy with NLA bookshop's Matt (grey tee) and Leanne Barrett, CBCA ACT President (right) |
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| with the lovely NLA Bookshop staff |
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| the fan pics begin... |
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| Andy started signing 30 minutes before the event officially opened |
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| some eager fans, queuing patiently |
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| this was the queue 30 mins before event start-time |
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| the queue - about 15 mins before the event was due to start |
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| the queue - about 15 mins before the event was due to start |
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| NLA Marketing Manager, Maureen Brooks, introduces Andy |
