Toitoi 14: A Journal for Young Writers and Artists

‘Toitoi’ is a quarterly publication comprising short stories, poems and art works that have been created by children between the ages of 5 and 13. Its philosophy is to treat young writers and artists with respect, handle their work with care and produce a beautifully designed journal of high quality. This issue continues to do exactly that.

The design is clean and modern, showcasing the illustrations perfectly with full or double pages and I am amazed by the sophistication, imagination and humour portrayed in these. The writing echos these qualities. Biosphere 2 is a dystopian story about a new experiment that doesn’t go to plan with a chilling twist at the end. Wild Conditions is a suspenseful tale of adventure gone wrong that leads to a tragic ending. New School is an insightful poem about feelings so many of us have experienced in a new situation. Steve is a story about a fly, a fly who wanted a name.

‘Toitoi’ is full of wonderful thoughts, ideas and observations and as well as an asset for any library, it is a perfect teaching resource (teacher support materials are available through their website). Submissions are invited for each issue and I think that any young writer or illustrator would be inspired by the pages of this summer edition.

Title: Toitoi 14: A Journal for Young Writers and Artists

Editor: Charlotte Gibbs

Illustrator: Various

Publisher: Toitoi Media Ltd

ISBN: 978-0-473-46747-0

RRP: $23

Format: paperback

Date of Publication: 2019

Ages: 5-13

Reviewer’s name: Kirsten Puddick, Librarian, Holy Cross School, Wellington

How highly are you recommending this book? Highly recommended

First sentence: My fingers touch the carvings on the coin.

You can buy this book here