Big Lit Quiz 2020
by Jacqui Halpin
The Big Lit Quiz, held annually by Book Links, is a wonderful celebratory end to the year for all those involved in children’s literature in Brisbane and its surrounds. This year it was even more highly anticipated, and needed, as it provided the first opportunity for a gathering in person of the Brisbane KidLit Community since the Romancing the Stars event way back in March. Since COVID restrictions meant pretty much all meetings for authors, illustrators, and supporters of children’s literature had to move online, the sheer joy of finally being able to meet face to face was palpable. To once again be able to mingle, to chat, to enthuse collectively over the love of children’s books, well … you just can’t get that feeling on Zoom. The vibe at The Bardon Bowls Club, where it was held on Saturday 28th November, was one of excitement, and there was a lot to be excited about. Wonderful raffle prizes, fabulous food, great book prizes for all! And on top of all the fun and frivolity the event raised $650 for IBBY Australia.
Expertly emceed by fabulous quizmaster, Yvonne Mes, 10 teams of authors, illustrators, teacher librarians, and avid readers of kidlit competed for the coveted championship win. Although competition was tight, no one could top the terrifically talented teacher librarian team, the Dewey Drops, made up of Sue Warren, Dajo Finlayson, Tracey Stuthridge and Gemma Leibinger, who each won a copy of the beautiful book, Wonderlands: The Illustration Artwork of Robert Ingpen. (photo: Maria Parenti)
This great event didn’t organise or run itself. A huge thank you to Jenny Stubbs who organised the questions, food, prize packs and general running of the day. Thank you to Liane McDermott for organising the venue, to Yvonne Mes for your quizmastery, and thank you to Shirley, Danielle, Tyrion and all who helped on the day. A special thank you to Dimity Powell and Mia Macrossan for the massive array of books donated for prizes.
Fantastic events like The Big Lit Quiz confirm the camaraderie of the children’s literature community, and particularly in this surreal year, provided positivity and laughter that was good for the creative soul.
