'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Sunday 23 October 2016

In Memoriam: Narelle Oliver

It is with deep sadness that KBR honours Australia author, illustrator, teacher, printmaker, wife, mother and respected children's book industry creator.

A critically acclaimed and multiple-award winning creator,first became interested in children's books while working as a teacher at the Queensland School for the Deaf. Using picture books in class with her students, she was inspired to write and illustrate her own books.

Birds and the environment featured prominently in Narelle's books, which often combined linocuts, digitally-enhanced photos and collage. In fact, her interest in the environment is what inspired her to begin her writing career. In the early 1980s, she traveled with her environmental scientist husband, exploring many national parks on the east coast of Australia. Narelle believed there is a great need for picture book stories about the less well-known Australian animals in their own unique habitats. She was especially interested in showing how these animals adapt to their surroundings.

KBR has reviewed several Narelle Oliver books. Just click the book covers to view.

http://www.kids-bookreview.com/2013/05/review-dont-let-spoonbill-in-kitchen.html

http://www.kids-bookreview.com/2010/08/cbca-book-of-year-shortlist-2010.html

http://www.kids-bookreview.com/2013/10/childrens-week-review-hunt_23.html

You can also learn more about her work and publications at her website - www.narelleoliver.com.

Our thoughts are with Narelle's family, friends and colleagues. She will be so deeply missed.

We hope you enjoy this video peek into her stunning work and processes.