May 17 - 23, 2023
If the theme fits…
◆ SUSTAINABILITY MESSAGE: Illustrator Melissa Johns with a copy of the latest book she has illustrated, ‘Harriet’s Hungry Worms’, written by Samantha Smith. PHOTO: Simone Kerwin
By SIMONE KERWIN
WHEN Melissa Johns was approached to illustrate her latest book, ‘Harriet’s Hungry Worms’, she immediately recognised that the eco-friendly plot was a perfect fit with her artwork. The Wangaratta artist, illustrator and avid upcycler uses predominantly recycled materials in her work, so Samantha Smith’s story following the adventures of a young girl’s ravenous compost worms resonated strongly with Melissa’s values. “As soon as I read what it was about I said, ‘I’m going to do it’,” she said. It is the third picture book Melissa has illustrated for publisher EK Books, following ‘Tabitha and the Raincloud’ (written by Devon Sillett) in 2020, and ‘Growing Pains’ (written by Alison McLennan) in 2021. Her illustrations enhance the sustainability message of the story, with the recycled materials chosen to help tell the story blooming from each page. From Harriet’s bright red woolly hair to the patterned bodies of her 983 compost worms, and even sports results torn from the Wangaratta Chronicle, Melissa has incorporated items her readers could find around the house - a great message to send not just young recyclers, but also budding creatives. “For this book, I recycled everything - paper, fabric, wool for the hair, tea bags…” Melissa said. “It was quite involved, particularly working on Harriet’s hair each time, and on the fluffy dog (which features a couple of times).
■ Continued page 6
YOUR GARDEN
ANIMAL CARE
with BELINDA
with MARIO
YOUR HEALTH with TERESA
GONE NE FISHING HING with ROB
Business Accounts Community-focused banking that supports your success Visit bankwaw.com.au for full terms and conditions. BankWAW is the registered business name held by WAW Credit Union Co-Operative Ltd.
bankwaw.com.au