Nick Bland – November 14 2021

Nick is an author illustrator. He spent his early childhood climbing haystacks and making mischief in his father’s studio. When he moved to ‘the bush’ at age 6, he discovered a wonderful new world and his creativity bloomed. When he stumbled into a bookshop job, he read every picture book that hit the shelves and began honing his style as a storyteller and illustrator. Nick’s other books include A Monster Wrote Me a Letter, Some Mums, Some Dads, The Aunties Three, The Runaway Hug (illustrated by Freya Blackwood) and The Magnificent Tree (co-written with Stephen Michael King). On weekends he works as a guardian for 120 aboriginal boys from around Northern Australia who are boarding in Darwin. The Very Cranky Bear was selected for the Australian Library and Information Association’s 2012 National Simultaneous Story Time picture book.

Twinkle
Scholastic Australia, 2012; ISBN 9781741696431
4+ years
Penny is a lonely little girl who gazes out her window at night and pretends that the stars are her friends. Then, one night, a shooting star lands in her garden. Together, the chased the quietness away, and fill the night with giggle and bounce. They even shared a secret or two. Before too long, Little Star has to return to the sky-with Penny’s help. Charming, gently humorous and beautifully illustrated.

The Very Cranky Bear Collection
Scholastic Press 2014; ISBN 9781743622520
3+ years
In the Jingle Jangle Jungle on a cold and rainy day, four little friends found a perfect place to play. Vibrant illustrations and fun, engaging stories make these three books perfect for reading aloud. This collection includes hardcover editions of The Very Cranky Bear, The Very Itchy Bear, The Very Hungry Bear, and The Very Brave Bear.