Harry and his dog Hopper have done everything together ever since Hopper was a jumpy little puppy. But one day the unthinkable happens and Hopper will never be there again. But Harry is not ready to let him go just yet.
CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal SHORTLIST 2010: Judges’ comments
This book really stands out with its excellent use of muted colour, perspective, and exterior and interior space. The result is a powerful take on the father-son relationship, and a much-loved pet’s death; an issue that is very well handled, with Harry’s emotions and memories of Hopper expressed visually to great effect.
On winning the prestigious Greenaway Medal in 2010 our very own Julia Eccleshare interviewed Freya Blackwood, for Books For Keeps. To download and read the article click here.
Margaret Wild is one of Australia's most prolific and courageous authors, unafraid to tackle difficult subjects, such as death, old age and social deprivation with both sensitivity and openness. Her heart-warming, moving picture books have been acclaimed both in Australia and overseas.
Margaret's talents have won her many awards throughout her career. In 1990, she won the Children's Book Council of Australia's Picture Book of the Year for The Very Best of Friends, published by Margaret Hamilton Books. Other CBC short-listed and Commended books by Margaret include: Let the Celebrations Begin!; There's a Sea in My Bedroom; Creatures in the Beard; Mr Nick's Knitting; Thank You Santa; A Bit of Company; The Slumber Party; and Toby.
In 1996, The Midnight Gang, a whimsical, joyous picture book about the night prowlings of a group of toddlers, was published by Omnibus Books. It was short-listed for the 1997 Children's Book Council of Australia Picture Book of the Year Award.
