The
Big Book of Rights
is the genius collaboration between Queensland author, Dannika
Patterson, illustrator Amanda Letcher, Children’s
Rights QLD and dozens and dozens of young people.
After
deep consultation and invitation to use the youngsters’ artistic and intellectual
input, this big book is a glorious, colourful creation aimed at evoking curiosity
and understanding of these rights in an age-appropriate way.
The story begins in the most wondrous of places, a children’s library where a young girl is alarmed at the lack of any book that explains this very big and important thing. Undeterred by the deficiency, she diligently sets about creating her own big book in much the same way I am certain Patterson would have tackled this task; with determination and unchecked gusto.
Slowly
the book takes shape, each page detailing the rights that exist to enable a
child to grow up happy, healthy and safe. Perhaps one of the most arresting
pages is the list of every right from the very basic, #2 All children have
rights, no matter what to #31 Children have the right to rest, relax
and play.
It’s easy
to forget that what some of us may take for granted is not always abundant nor
remembered or worse, practised, in other societies across the globe,
especially those stricken by war, natural disaster and displacement. The life
of a child is not always blessed and trouble free, even when it is. This book
serves to reinstate awareness and understanding in a delightfully visual and
meaningful way.
Ample
white space allows Amanda Letcher’s vibrant illustrations to pop and dance
throughout blocks of easy to assimilate narrative. Perhaps the most beguiling
thing about this book is the especially commissioned font in which prominent
words appear. Letters and numbers twist and turn in every colour of the
rainbow. Many have eyes and ears and tails – each a (storybook) character in
their own right! All reflecting the unique ideas and imagination of the children
consulted for their creativity. Not only does this deliver emphasis where emphasis
is due, it evokes a special brand of ownership among the young people for
whom this book is designed.
I told you it was genius.
There
is a welcome rising focus on books for young people that endeavour to explain
and enlighten them about their rights, as featured by Elizabeth
Vercoe earlier this week with the review of A Child’s Right To Their Language. The
Big Book Of Rights easily complements this trend and comes with my highest
recommendation for inclusion into every school classroom.
Title: The Big Book Of Rights
Author: Dannika Patterson
Illustrator: Amanda Letcher
Publisher: Children’s Rights Queensland
Publication Date: October 2024
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780654299038
For ages: 4 – 12
Type: Non-Fiction Picture Book
