One minute’s silenceDavid Metzenthen, illustrated by Michael Camilleri
Allen & Unwin
ISBN: 9781743316245 RRP: $29.99
One of the best books of the year, this picture book is clearly directed towards older children, teenagers and adults. The words lyrically and fluently tell the Anzac story by drawing on some well known incidents but portraying them from both sides. These incidents are presented as reflections for that contemplative minute observed each Remembrance Day. In sepia sketches the illustrations feature the members of a contemporary year 12 class, disinterested presences at their desks. wondering what all this has to do with them. Then they are transformed as characters in the story, sometimes in historic scenes, sometimes contemporary. It is a dramatic effect and its impact shows on the class and the reader alike.
