To mark International Literacy Day 08 September 2022, Otepoti UNESCO City of Literature took part in the celebrations by gifting three children’s books to Melbourne UNESCO City of Literature, host city for the annual Cities of Literature Conference. This tradition of koha books began in 2018, and each time books from all over the world are presented to the public library network for families and children to enjoy.

We chose a beautiful selection of books written and/or illustrated by our own prolific author, David Elliot, who has signed each copy to mark this prestigious occasion taking place in our part of the world.

David’s books are well loved and represent the best literary values for young readers: words, sounds, visual stimuli and playfulness. David is an award-winning author and illustrator in Aotearoa, and he is widely known internationally as an illustrator. As well as these accolades David is a key member of our City of Literature whanau and is very generous in helping new illustrators develop their careers.