Saturday, November 17, 2012

Skyscraper Sandwich at Book Island Launch nearly goes­ through the roof




On Sunday 11 November, Raumati South Memorial Hall was almost filled to the brim with parents and children celebrating the launch of Book Island’s first three children’s titles, Sammy and the Skyscraper Sandwich, Bernie and Flora, and Sir Mouse to the Rescue.
There were lots of exciting activities based on the books, including sword- and princess hat-making, colouring-in competitions, and – what was undoubtedly the highlight of the launch – the construction of a skyscraper sandwich out of recyclable materials.
With the help of Simon Calcinai and Jake Roos from the Kapiti Coast District Council, the children built a giant sandwich out of cardboard, cans and egg cartons that nearly went through the roof – just like Sammy’s in Sammy and the Skyscraper Sandwich.

To celebrate the books’ Belgian origins, delicious crepes and hot chocolate were also served to all the guests and proved a big hit. All cups and plates from the event will be composted, which means that this launch was a Zero Waste Event.

For children’s book publisher and owner of Book Island Greet Pauwelijn, the launch couldn't have been more successful. “We were absolutely blown away by the amount of people who turned up to support us. Our concept of turning reading into a multi-dimensional experience has worked out really well. Luckily we had the help of 17 volunteers – without them this launch just wouldn't have been possible.”
Book Island’s Facebook page has been inundated with messages from those who loved the launch. 
Beautiful books and delightfully busy launch” – Judith Lofley
“Fantastic book launch! Thanks Book Island.” – Debbie Cowens

Sammy and the Skyscraper Sandwich, Bernie and Flora, and Sir Mouse to the Rescue will also be launched at The Children's Bookshop in Kilbirnie on Monday 19 November at 7.30pm. 

Here, publisher Greet Pauwelijn will be giving a talk about her journey to Book Island and Belgian children’s book illustrations. Join her for a glass of wine, nibbles and a (mini-) Skyscraper Sandwich. 

Register your interest by emailing Greet at info@bookisland.co.nz.




1 comment:

Nicola said...

It was a truly zingy experience - best children's book launch I've ever been to! The books are beautifully produced, original tales, in regular demand in this household.
(P.S. I am not being paid to say this!!)