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. ...