News & Reviews

Asian Content for the World’s Children 2012

The National Book Development Council of Singapore and The Arts House presented Asian Festival of Children’s Content 2012 from May 26-29, 2012. It was a common platform for writers, illustrators, content makers, publishers, distributors and retailers, international buyers and other professionals related to children’s content in a plethora of formats such as comics, books, e-books, graphic novels, videos, films, educational games, etc.

There were three new initiatives this year. The first event for the festival was a warmer, called “Celebrating Our Stars”. It bought together authors, illustrators and publishers of Singapore’s children books. This evening session provided a great opportunity for aspiring authors, illustrators and other content creators to network with publishers.

The second event was a panel discussion on “Trajectories and Themes in Children’s Literature from the Philippines”. Led by Russell Molina and Jomike Tejido, two of the most popular and respected Filipino authors/illustrators, this event highlighted Asian authors and illustrators from regional countries. They were also joined by Candy Gourlay and Isabel Roxas, overseas based Filipinos who shared their international perspectives, as well as personal narratives, on multicultural children’s literature.

Lastly, the launch of the Rights Fair drew together publishers, literary agents and rights agents at the festival. It was an excellent place to link up with distributors to promote quality Asian children’s content to the rest of Asia and the world.

Famous children book artist Maurice Sendak passes away

Maurice Sendak, the well-known children’s book artist of the 20th century, recently passed away. He was 83 and lived in Connecticut, United States. He was popular for more than a dozen picture books he wrote and illustrated himself, including Where the Wild Things Are, In the Night Kitchen, Outside Over There, Alligators All Around, Chicken Soup With Rice, One Was Johnny and Pierre, to name a few.

Aadarsh’s Purple Turtle books big hit at World Children Expo

Bhopal-based Aadarsh Pvt Ltd, a trusted name in the education sector, recently showcased Purple Turtle kids luxury brand at the World Children Expo 2012, Gurgaon. “Growing and reading with Purple Turtle promises to be a fun, exciting way to develop a reading habit in the younger ones. There is also a series launched, on how Purple Turtle got his name,” told Manish Rajoria, director, Aadarsh Private Limited.

Aadarsh is into children’s book designing, illustrating, publishing and printing company of Indian origin. They are also license holders of International characters like Barbie and Ben-10 for India and Pakistan. Within a short span, Aadarsh has already attracted overseas as well as domestic customers and established long-term relations with leading publishers in the UK, Europe and the US. Aadarsh’s Talking Book features in Limca Book of Records and India book of Records.

Commenting on the association, Manish said, “Purple Turtle is for the niche segment and is being pitched as ‘A Kids Luxury Brand’. We have activity and puzzle books to bring Purple Turtle alive for young readers. The process has begun to develop learning skills including reading, writing as we already have firm orders for the Purple Turtle licenses. We are working on the adventures series to include stories including more childhood skills and games. Purple Turtle’s licensing opportunities was also available in the fair. The visitors were excited to meet a cute new playmate – Purple Turtle, which is fun and carries a good sense too.”

There was great response from children and parents and they were very happy to see the lovely Purple Turtle character developed in India.

A story book ‘Super Girls and Super Boys’

Nowadays children are becoming more and more self-centered and demanding. They do not care about others. The story teaches children to be more giving and tolerant, instead of being very preachy the story acts as an eye opener for all little kids.

It is a sweet story about a little girl Maira who learned a valuable lesson that ‘You don't need some special powers to be a supergirl or a superboy.’ A happy face, good nature and helpfulness make you a supergirl or a superboy. The book is beautifully illustrated and presented; making sure that each kid would enjoy this reading journey.

Authored by Rungeen Singh and published by Vishv Books under VP code: 1566, the book has been priced moderately at just Rs 55.