For a while now I have been wanting to mention the wonderful work being done by our own Australian Children's Laureates. The inaugural Children’s Laureate role for 2012 to 2013 is shared by two eminent and much-loved children’s authors, Alison Lester and Boori Monty Pryor. Both Alison and Boori have been working hard promoting the value, importance and transformational nature of reading to children and families around Australia. Some of their adventures have been documented here and here. We are lucky to have such passionate people encouraging literature and picture books here in Australia. Much of this passion comes from Ann James and Ann Haddon at Book Illustrated, who I believe have been a key part of getting the Laureate program swinging into action!