Pukapuka by Vasanti Unka

A family embarks on an adventure across town and to a place which is fun, restful, informative, musical and absorbing in turn.  One of our country's best-loved author and illustrators, Vasanti Unka, brings the magic of the library and the joy of reading to our younger generation.

Unka teamed up with the Auckland Council Libraries and Justin Kereama to create this gorgeous bilingual book. It celebrates everything a library has to offer - from allowing your imagination to run wild, to Wriggle and Rhyme sessions, to a peaceful nook to rest.

Kereama translated the book into te reo Māori, and I love that it is comes first on the page. There's lots of kupu and sentences that readers, even those beginning their learning journey, can use every day.

Unka keeps the writing to a minimum with her vibrant, magical illustrations complimenting the text. The book is warm and embracing, with Unka representing diversity and inclusion within both her words and her artwork. 

There's so much to pore over within every page. I loved the inclusion of some favourite New Zealand books on the shelves, while the footpaths are a clever touch. Unka's whimsical touches are delightful and I can see her techniques being studied and used within classrooms. The design features are well thought out too, with a clever cut out, and a tactile cover adding to the fun.

A lovely ode to libraries and reading, Pukapuka is a bright, welcoming book, just like its subject. 

Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell

Beatnik