Once I was a Giant

Zeno Sworder and Thames & Hudson Australia have skillfully produced a picture book that transcends age, extending the idea of what picture books are and who they are for.Thames & Hudson Australia took extraordinary consideration in shaping the production of Once I was a Giant. Excelling across every metric, the title delivered strong sales, widespread multi-channel support and fantastic foreign rights success - reflecting the publisher’s deep commitment to both the book and its author from the outset.

* 2026 ABIA Judges’ Comments, Book of the Year *A magical blend of ancient and modern storytelling, reminding us that all things are deeply connected in ways both known and unknown. * Shaun Tan, award-winning author of The Arrival *A love song, a protest march and a reminder that we are all a forest. This beautiful book draws attention to the small, the vast, and the interconnections across our world. * Jazz Money, Wiradjuri poet and artist *A beautiful, wholly original story of hope and the more-than-human world. Once I was a Giant is a stunning blend of language and imagery that sits in the mind long after reading. This is the work of a master picture-book creator. * Zana Fraillon, award-winning author of The Bone Sparrow *Once I was a Giant is a moving, beautifully illustrated story that speaks to the deep vulnerability of our precious environment. We all have a part to play in protecting our soils, plants, animals and in learning from the wisdom of our First Nations Peoples. Landcare is a growing community movement, with volunteers across Australia actively caring for the land, waterways and restoring biodiversity in their local area for future generations. When you read this book, we invite you to step out into nature - listen, look, feel, smell, and connect. Nature needs you. – Landcare AustraliaThe book’s layered storytelling and detailed illustrations are something readers of all ages can savour. * Books+Publishing *

Praise for My Strange Shrinking Parents:This book breathes beauty on every page.

* Gabrielle Wang, Australian Children’s Laureate *A poignant, fantastical conceit, reminiscent of the work of Shaun Tan. – Andrea Wang * The New York Times *A clever and poignant tribute to the love of all those who made the journey. – Starred review * Kirkus Reviews *Lovingly produced, designed and illustrated, My Strange Shrinking Parents is an enchanting story of parental sacrifice. Not only will it win many awards, it will undoubtedly enthral and captivate readers for a long time to come. A must-read for ages 4 to adult. – Angela Crocombe * Readings *