Meet Kaye Julian
Kaye was the winner of the 2024 Storylines Gavin Bishop Award for unpublished illustrators. Kaye received a year of mentoring by Gavin Bishop and her illustrations are featured in the book ‘Go Scooter Go’, written by Kyle Mewburn. She currently works as a social worker in mental health for young people in the Wellington region and has trained in arts therapy which combines her passion of art and helping others.
Kaye said that developing an interest in reading can be encouraged with being able to choose books that you’re interested in/like, including graphic novels which tend to be the gateway to reading.
Growing up, Kaye attended Puketapu School in New Plymouth where she spent a lot of time in the school library at lunchtime, either reading or drawing. She remembers Duffy Books coming to her school, arriving in big white boxes and receiving ‘Caught Being Good Awards’ as she got to choose a special book. Being able to choose books from the Duffy Book Offers that she was interested in, and could take home was really special – so special that she still has these books today. “Two of the most impactful books I received from Duffy Books in Homes, were ‘Picture Book Magic’ which was about NZ authors and illustrators, including an interview with Gavin Bishop and ‘Alanna: The First Adventure’ by Tamora Pierce. This book sparked my interest in fantasy and in storytelling as Tamora writes about young female protagonists. I also loved ‘Alan Duff’s Māori heroes’ which gave me an insight into unique stories in New Zealand history that I otherwise might never heard.”
Kaye says “Duffy is amazing and made a big difference in my life and my school. It’s been so worth it as being a confident reader has been such a big part of my life turning how out I wanted it to. I’m a big believer in reading changing your life and opening doors to opportunities you don’t even think of as a kid.”