On Saturday, December 13th, Kas Rae launched her debut children’s book, Broncy Dingle Dandy And His Best Mate Mandy, at Proserpine Library. The book was created in collaboration with illustrator Hiruni Kariyasawa.
As a primary school teacher, Kas is incredibly passionate about spreading the joy of creativity amongst her students. “I really enjoy a book with a beautiful message”, said Kas. The book was inspired by her family dog, Broncy.
The title was based on a particular jingle that involved the phrase broncy dingle dandy, serving as the impetus for the book’s development.
Kas loved reading the book to her students both during its development and after its completion, reminiscing on the joy felt when the students retained many of the rhymes and phrases.
The book saw a fruitful collaboration with talented illustrator Hiruni, as rough sketches and ideas by Kas developed into the beautiful art now featured in the book.
The story encourages positive self-talk and resilience. “The whole book is about Broncy not giving up…the underlying theme is asking for help from friends,” explained Kas.
Overall, the book’s development stems from a deep passion for encouraging creativity amongst the youth, especially in regional areas like ours.
“Growing up here, I didn’t even think [creativity] was an option on the menu…it’s come to be that I can do this, but I’m really passionate about letting kids know that they can do this…you can create a story, you can do it.”
By extension, Kas believes creativity is important to promote in education. The hand-drawn aesthetic in the book was crafted to directly contrast with clean AI images that children are often exposed to, teaching them that handmade craft is something that should hold great value.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received, I feel really lucky.”
The release of Broncy Dingle Dandy And His Best Mate Mandy signifies a growth in creative spirit for the Whitsundays region and it is available now including the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.
Photo supplied
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