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

Monday 2 July 2018

Look What I'm Reading! Margaret Hamilton

Margaret Hamilton AM has been involved with children’s books all her working life — as a children’s librarian, bookseller, publisher and parent. Her publishing company, Margaret Hamilton Books, achieved international success and a reputation for high quality books, many award winners. 

For her services to children’s literature she received The CBCA Lady Cutler Award, CBCA Nan Chauncy Award, ABPA Pixie O’Harris Award, The Dromkeen Medal, and an Order of Australia. She now runs Pinerolo, her children’s book cottage at Blackheath in the Blue Mountains and presents regular radio programs featuring prominent identities in children's literature on Radio Blue Mountains 89.1 FM every Monday evening.

Which children’s book are you currently reading?
1918 by Libby Gleeson.

Can you tell us in two sentences what the book is about?
This is a moving and thrilling novel about the experiences of Australians on the Western Front, particularly the Battle of Villers-Bretonneaux.

How much did you enjoy/are enjoying this title?
I enjoy anything written by Libby Gleeson. She went to France to research this book. It’s an excellent read and I thoroughly recommend it.

What made you choose this title? Was it a review, advertising, the cover, the blurb, the author/illustrator, or the subject/genre?
I chose this because it was the latest Libby Gleeson novel. I mentioned it on my Radio Program on Blue Mountains FM prior to Anzac Day.

What other titles are on your bedside table /To Read Pile?
The Shepard's Hut by Tim Winton. Speak Memory by Vladimir Nabakov.

How did you come by these titles: personal choice/request, publisher’s review copy, or other?
I’m a fan of Tim Winton and was looking forward to this. I borrowed it from a friend. Speak Memory is the latest book chosen by our Book Group. I bought this book.

Do you have a favourite genre? If so, what is it, and why do you prefer it?
Picture books of course. My publishing company specialised in picture books. Pinerolo, the Children’s Book Cottage has a permanent exhibition of wonderful original artwork from picture books. I run courses on how to create picture books and have illustrators in residence.

Do you read from printed books or some other medium? Please expand a little on the why of your choice.
I’ve tried, but cannot read on a tablet. I prefer the feel of a ‘real book’, especially the tactile experience of a beautiful picture book.