Local Bath illustrator Grahame Baker-Smith wins the 2011 CILIP Greenaway Medal for "FArTHER"

Great excitement amongst the staff and children at St Stephen's School in Bath this week when one of the dads, Grahame Baker-Smith, came into school to show everyone his 2011 CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal.  He'd been awarded it for his picture book “FArTHER” on 23 June at a ceremony at BAFTA in London.  The Greenaway Medal is regarded as the UK's most prestigious children's illustration award.

"FArTHER" is a story about a father who dreams of flying, but when he goes off to war and doesn't return, his son decides to make his dream come true. 

The Chair of the judging panel said: “FArTHER is a beautifully conceived picture book with a dream-like quality that captures the imagination of readers of all ages. Its wealth of detail conveys both dark emotions: the storms of war and weather, and a powerful sense of loss and bereavement; but also a great sense of hope as vested in future generations”.

Grahame Baker-Smith has been working as an illustrator for the past 30 years. His work includes several books as well as an album cover for Robert Plant.  His book “Leon and the Place Between” was shortlisted for the 2010 CILIP Greenaway Medal.  Grahame’s clever use of photographs, collage and illustration make his style completely original and unique.  "FArTHER" is a picture book to treasure.