The strength and vibrancy of contemporary illustration for children is brilliantly demonstrated by the shortlist for the 2020 Klaus Flugge Prize
The shortlist for the Klaus Flugge Prize is announced today (Tuesday 19 May).
From a longlist of sixteen picture books by debut illustrators, selected five shortlisted books;
When Sadness Comes to Call, Eva Eland, editor Libby Hamilton, designer Rebecca Garrill (Andersen Press)
Eva Eland’s examination of sadness, represented by a misty little monster, simply and unforgettably conveys a sophisticated message in a masterpiece of minimalism.
The Star in the Forest, Helen Kellock, editor Anna Ridley, designer Aaron Hayden (Thames & Hudson)
Helen Kellock uses light and composition to create an atmospheric starry adventure, that glows with family love.
Where is Your Sister?, Puck Koper, editor Suzanne Carnell, designer Jo Spooner (Two Hoots)
Using a limited palette, Dutch artist Puck Koper creates a frantic dash through a department store which is both a search and find story, and an accurately observed and very funny family adventure.
On the Origin of Species, Sabina Radeva, editor Anna Barnes Robinson, designer Keren Greenfeld (Puffin)
A one-time molecular biologist, Sabina Radeva utilises her passion for science to retell Darwin’s famous work, mining the depths of inventiveness to convey information through few words and wonderful pictures.
One Fox: A Counting Thriller Book, Kate Read, editor Suzanne Carnell, designer Jo Spooner
Kate Read uses bold colours, composition and collage to tell the story of one famished fox’s encounter with some angry hens, making this counting book a real thriller.
The panel of judges comprising award-winning illustrator Mini Grey; Jessica Love (2019 Klaus Flugge Prize winner); Meera Ghanshamdas (bookseller at Moon Lane Ink); children’s book consultant Jake Hope; and Pam Smy of Anglia Ruskin University, have chosen five to shortlist.
Chair of the judges Julia Eccleshare said: “Our shortlist demonstrates the vibrancy of contemporary illustration for children. Here are five very different books – the illustrators have different styles, use different techniques and have different intentions, but each achieves exactly what they set out to do with pictures that perfectly tell their stories.”
2020 is the fifth year of the prize, which was set up to honour Klaus Flugge, founder of Andersen Press and an extremely influential figure in children’s picture books. It is awarded to the most promising and exciting newcomer to children’s picture book illustration.
The shortlist was due to be announced at a live event at Foyles Charing Cross Road on Tuesday 19th May. Instead, judge and 2019 winner Jessica Love will announce the shortlist live via social media. The winner will be revealed on Wednesday 16th September 2020 and will receive a cheque for £5,000.