List: Koko the Great

Title of Picture Book: Koko the Great

Author: Natalie Hennedige

Illustrator: Twisstii

Publisher and Country (may be self-published): National Art Gallery, Singapore

Publisher’s Blurb: Koko is a small village boy with a lively imagination, so life by the river is never dull. This adventure takes Koko further than he has ever been, to the end of the river where the river meets the sea. Does Koko take a step into the great beyond?

Koko’s story was inspired by “Life by the River”, an oil painting by one of Singapore’s first generation artist Liu Kang. The painting is in the collection of the National Heritage Board, Singapore.

5 Keywords (other than themes): imagination, art, national art gallery, painting, history

Brief Review (in under 50 words): “A wonderful story that celebrates the imagination of young children.” – Suchen Christine Lim, Singapore Literature Prizewinner

Where to buy or borrow (if available): NLB, Singapore

ISBN Number (if available): 079-981-08-8758-2

Submitted by (could be your preferred name, including pen name): Moses

Listing: The Lonely Boy and the Ugly Dog

Title of Picture Book: The Lonely Boy and the Ugly Dog

Author: Eliza Teoh

Illustrator: John Lim

Publisher and Country (may be self-published): Bubbly Books, Singapore

Publisher’s Blurb: An awkward boy. A hideous dog. An unlikely friendship. Then, a terrible disaster … Whimsical and heartfelt, this is a story of friendship, loyalty, bravery and sacrifice.

5 Keywords (other than themes): fire, acceptance, history, art, loneliness

Brief Review (in under 50 words): A story written entirely in rhyme. Inspired by a painting by Liu Kang (Life by the River) and a historic fire in Singapore.

Where to buy or borrow (if available): NLB Singapore

ISBN Number (if available): 978-981-09-7202-8

Submitted by (could be your preferred name, including pen name): Moses