LIAN TANNER

Ella and the Ocean is launched at last!

August 11th, 2019

I was flicking through an old notebook from 1994 the day before yesterday, and found the very first note of the idea that eventually turned into my picture book, Ella and the Ocean. That’s 24 years ago! Some books take a very long time to cook.

The launch last Sunday was gorgeous, with friends, neighbours, relatives, and complete strangers helping us celebrate. Lyndon Riggall was a wonderfully warm-hearted MC;

Her Excellency the Governor, Kate Warner, launched Ella into the world with kindness and aplomb;

everyone got a boat stamp on their hand, and we ended with an enthusiastic hunt for paper boats by torchlight.

And now at last, after such a long journey, Ella is out in the world. You can buy her here, and find teachers’ notes here. If you see her somewhere, let me know!

4 thoughts on “Ella and the Ocean is launched at last!

  1. Michael says:

    Congratulations Lian! It looks like a wonderful occasion.

    1. Lian Tanner says:

      Thanks Michael, it really was delightful. Smiles all round.

  2. ROCELYN Ann Ives says:

    Gave your book to my grand niece Ella May today who is 4 on the 4th of May. Ella is a Tasmanian by way of her mother and fa mily who all live in Tasmania. As a retired K to 3 and Special ed teacher as well as Early Childhood advisor , the book sang to me about children travelling in their imagination to worlds not experienced. Love it and Kate launching spoke to me as well.

    1. Lian Tanner says:

      Thank you, Rocelyn, and happy 4th birthday to Ella May! I was thrilled that Kate agreed to launch the book, and she did it with such warmth and generosity. It was a lovely occasion. And now the book has won one of the NSW Premier’s literary awards, which is also lovely!

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