Sally Rippin says picture books can change lives after Guardian poll inclusion

Sally Rippin said her rhyming picture book Come Over to My House was chosen in the Guardian’s readers’ poll of the best Australian picture books of all time. The book was co-written with musician Eliza Hull and illustrated by Daniel Gray-Barnett. Rippin began her piece by quoting Emilie Buchwald: "Children are made readers on the laps of their parents." She wrote that Come Over to My House explores the home lives of children and parents who are d/Deaf or disabled and said she was proud to see it listed among many enduring Australian titles passed down between generations.

Rippin said picture books are primarily created to be read aloud and that reading aloud expands vocabulary, enhances brain development and develops "phonological awareness"; she added that research shows regularly reading aloud from a young age gives children a clear advantage when they start school.

She warned many adults stop reading picture books once children can read for themselves and said illustrators often add another layer of meaning that helps children imagine different lives and develop empathy.

Key Topics

Culture, Sally Rippin, Eliza Hull, Daniel Gray-barnett, Readers' Poll, Australian Picture Books