The true story of a World War l Kiwi soldier has won the country's highest honour in children's writing at the annual New Zealand Post Children's Book Awards, presented in Wellington tonight.
Nice Day for a War, by author Matt Elliot and illustrated by Chris Slane was named Children's Book of the Year. The book is based on the original diaries of Elliot's grandfather, Corporal Cyril Elliot.
"Nice Day for a War is a stand-out book which offers young readers an honest glimpse into the lives of soldiers during World War I,'' said Gillian Candler, the Awards Convenor of Judges.
A picture book, The Cat's Pyjamas by first time published writer and illustrator Catherine Foreman, won the Children's Choice Award. The award is heralded as a significant indicator of audience opinion.
The book's main character enchanted children throughout New Zealand with his colourful collection of pyjamas; one for every day of the week.
