Here at Walker we're delighted that Anthony Browne has been announced as the sixth Children's Laureate. Anthony accepted his medal and a bursary of £15,000 from Andrew Motion, chair of the selection committee, this morning at a ceremony at Centre Point, saying:
'It's an honour to be the Children's Laureate for 2009-11. I'm well aware of the amazing things achieved by the five previous Laureates, and I'm in awe of their commitment and hard work.
'Picture books are special – they're not like anything else. Sometimes I hear parents encouraging their children to read what they call proper books (books without pictures), at an earlier and earlier age. This makes me sad, as picture books are perfect for sharing, and not just with the youngest children. As a father, I understand the importance of the bond that develops through reading picture books with your child.
'We have in Britain some of the best picture book makers in the world, and I want to see their books appreciated for what they are – works of art.'
The role of Children's Laureate is awarded once every two years to an eminent writer or illustrator of children's books to celebrate outstanding achievement in their field. The appointment of a Children's Laureate acknowledges the importance of exceptional children's authors in creating the readers of tomorrow.
Previous Children’s Laureates are: Quentin Blake (1999-2001), Anne Fine (2001-2003), Michael Morpurgo (2003-2005), Jacqueline Wilson (2005-2007) and Michael Rosen (2007-2009).
The award is now funded by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) and administered by Booktrust. The sole sponsors for the 2009-2011 award are Waterstone’s.
Well done Anthony on this fantastic achievement!