"This is My Happy Place" picture book launch with Emma Bowd

We couldn't think of a better way to celebrate International Day of Happiness than launching the brilliant Emma Bowd's latest picture book, "This is My Happy Place" (illustrated by Jen Khatun, Affirm Press, 2024)!

Emma is a Bayside local and an internationally published and award-winning Australian author of books for adults and children; an experienced presenter; and a passionate literacy advocate with the children’s education charity, Ardoch.

Emma’s love of language, fashion, travel, family life and contemporary culture has seen her write fun, feel-good adventures for children which showcase diversity with a modern twist on traditional themes.

Her debut rhyming children’s picture book, "Wonderful Shoes" (illustrated by Tania McCartney, Windy Hollow Books, 2021) was awarded a CBCA Notable Book, Early Childhood, 2022; named in a prestigious list of Best Rhyming Books for Little Ones (Children’s Books Daily, 2021); and features on Play School Story Time (Series 5, ABC Kids TV, 2022). "The Day You Were Born" was published in August 2023 and has become a firm favourite with our library staff.

Emma lives in Narrm/Melbourne on Boonwurrung land with her family. An active participant in the Australian children’s literature community, she has been featured widely in local, national and international press; and was a guest author on BBC Radio 4 Woman’s Hour when she lived in London.

Everyone is welcome to attend this joyous occasion. Stay on after our regular Toddler Time at 10.30am to hear Emma read "This is My Happy Place".

Books will be available to purchase and there'll be activities for children.