Shortlist Spotlight: Can I Play by by Nicola Kinnear (Scholastic)

It’s time for another look at one of our illustrious shortlist and this time it’s Can I Play by Nicola Kinnear. It was described as ‘a beautiful example of the different kinds of friendship that exist in childhood’ - but here’s judge Dapo Adeola to tell us more about this wonderful book:

About Nicola Kinnear

Nicola Kinnear is an illustrator, author, storyteller, designer and maker and is one of the brightest new stars of children’s illustration. Nicola studied at Kingston University on the Illustration Animation BA and her bestselling debut picture book, A LITTLE BIT BRAVE, was an international hit.  CAN I PLAY is her fourth book with Alison Green Books. As well as creating her own books, Nicola has been commissioned to illustrate sequels to Peter Rabbit. Nicola gravitates towards the magical and whimsical in her work and is greatly inspired by nature and folklore. Nicola lives in South London. You can find her online www.nicolakinnear.com


Nicola says…

What is the picture book that have you enjoyed reading with someone else most, and why?

I love reading any book to my niece and nephew, Gwen and Felix. But recently Felix has really enjoyed reading Bunnies on the Bus” by Philip Ardagh and Ben Mantle. He finds it so funny and enjoys looking at the gorgeous illustrations and hunts for the little side story with the “naughty robbers”. It's great to see him enjoying it so much.

What's your favourite thing about each character in Can I Play?

My favourite thing about Pebble is how happy and friendly she is. She also reminds me of when I was younger - the annoying little sister that just wants to join in with my older siblings!

My favourite thing about George is when he learns that it’s fun to have a friend, even if they’re a little bit different like Pebble. 

Which picture book would you give as a gift to George and Pebble,and why?

I think I would give George and Pebble, A Mouse Called Julian by Joe Todd-Stanton. It’s another story about unlikely friendships that might help them learn to enjoy each other's friendship more.