Inside Pukapuka: Vasanti Unka on creating a picture book for library lovers

What makes a library such a magical place?

That's the question at the heart of Pukapuka, a new picture book published by Auckland Council Libraries. Written and illustrated by Vasanti Unka, the story celebrates libraries as places where imagination, language and community come together.

We asked Vasanti about the inspiration behind the book, her creative process and what she hopes young readers will take away.

A celebration of libraries

For Vasanti, Pukapuka began with a lifelong appreciation for books and libraries.

"They represent the best of human kindness and intelligence," Vasanti said.

The story also has a deeply personal connection.

"My sister died a few months before I wrote the book. She had been a librarian all her adult life, so her mokopuna were included in the book. At ages four and one they are book lovers too."

That love of libraries extends beyond the pages of Pukapuka. Asked about her favourite library, Vasanti chose Central City Library.

"I actually love Auckland Central Library because it has the most and varied books – and I can get lost in it!

"I grab every book that catches my eye and imbibe. Even though I work as a picture book creator, I get lots of inspiration from all sorts of books and generally move from one obsession to another."

And if there's one thing she hopes children take away from Pukapuka?

"Libraries really are the best place to be!"

Bringing Pukapuka to life with mixed-media art

Vasanti wanted the illustrations to feel familiar to children across Aotearoa.

"I blended collaged items from real library books with a watercoloured textured style (done digitally). I wanted the illustrations to reflect regular suburbia or small township, so that all tamariki could relate to it."

Vasanti used the same approach to illustrate the people in the story, naturally reflecting our diverse communities.

"I just illustrate what I see around me. The schools I visit have all kinds of kids in them – all are loveable."

A bilingual picture book

Language also plays an important role in Vasanti's work.

"I grew up in an Indian family in a small New Zealand town. So the language around me was a natural blend of Gujarati, English and Māori, plus I have always read a lot. All of these have provided lots of different ways to be able to express myself."

The book's te reo Māori translation by Justin Kereama was a highlight of the publishing process.

"I had already included a few te reo Māori words, so Justin's magic was a wonderful addition. Read aloud, it's better than the English! I'm learning from it."

Bonus fact!

When books can take you anywhere, where would Vasanti choose?

"Narnia."

Borrow Pukapuka from your library and discover a picture book that celebrates books, imagination and the joy of libraries.

Find Pukapuka in the catalogue