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What could be better for a book-loving teen than being a judge in a national Book Week competition? 

Thanks to our passionate Teacher Librarians, some of our Year 7s had the opportunity to participate in the nation-wide 2024 Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Sun Project: Shadow Judging. 

Students read six books, completed a reading journal and participated in weekly conversations with their perspectives contributing to the Shadow Judging Book of the Year Award. 

Being Jimmy Baxter by Fiona Lloyd was one of the books that the Shadow Judges had the opportunity to review, and was a hit within the group, including Amelia Liu. 

I loved Being Jimmy Baxter because the author wrote it in a really heartbreaking manner; in the eyes of a small innocent child. It’s a heartwarming story of loss, abuse, bullying, and finding someone who can be an island in the endless sea of despair. Definitely recommend,” said Amelia. 

Jorja Harper shared Amelia’s appreciation for this novel. 

“I thoroughly enjoyed participating in this year’s Shadow Judging. It was fun to spend time with like-minded peers and expand my hobby of reading into something more,” said Jorja.  

“My favourite book was Being Jimmy Baxter. I loved this book because it was funny, heartwarming and easy to read. It truly shines a light on domestic violence and how it impacts families like the Baxters. Jimmy’s take on the situation will guarantee a laugh, some tears and a warm and fuzzy feeling.” 

“I created this group to continue to provide a safe inclusive space for our students to have their voice heard and celebrate the joy of reading for pleasure in our secondary Library,” said Mrs Kellie Billingsley, Teacher Librarian. 

“The students have been so excited to be part of this initiative.” 

When you speak to the students, it’s clear that Kellie’s vision of fostering a love of reading is being realised. 

I love reading for so many reasons, but the main one is because it transports me to another world with amazing characters. It’s a way to escape to an imaginative world, and gives me a glimpse into the author’s head, “ said Rosie Scholefield.  

“The words turn into images in my head, and I forget that I’m even reading!”