Hello! A Counting Book of Kindnesses (AUS/NZ)

“A gorgeous book that celebrates how simple acts of kindness can uphold the right to safety.”

Nicky Parker Head of Amnesty International UK's literature and publishing programme

“May this wonderful, simple book have wings to fly and melt the hearts that doubt its message.”

Rosemary Wells Award-winning children’s book author-illustrator of Max and Ruby series

“In simple, appropriate, accessible terms, A Counting Book of Kindnesses helps today’s children understand the welcome that tomorrow’s refugees will need.”

Kenneth Roth Former Executive Director, Human Rights Watch

“Humanity can hardly be put into words. It appears when we act, stand up for others. Hallo! shows what small gestures can mean for people on the run: the feeling of belonging and the hope for a better future.”

Peter Ruhenstroth-Bauer, UNO-Flüchtlingshilfe UNO refugee aid (German UNHCR)

Hello! A Counting Book of Kindnesses

🇦🇺/🇳🇿 AUS/NZ edition

Published in Australia and New Zealand by Walker Books,
1 August 2020.

1 boat…helping us on our way
5 wishes…lifting our spirits with hope
10 friends…making us happy

Come with a family as they travel out of danger to a safe place and meet all kinds of people who show them kindness along the way. This unique and beautiful counting book is full of empathy and hope for all children, everywhere.

Please support your local, independent booksellers, or

10% of author royalties will be donated to Amnesty International UK Section to support human rights including those of child refugees.

Endorsements

Kate Greenaway Medal nominee Nominated for the Kate Greenaway Medal 2021, "outstanding book in terms of illustration"

Northern Lights Book Award winner Winner in the concept category Counting

UNO refugee aid (German UNHCR) "Humanity can hardly be put into words. It appears when we act, stand up for others. Hallo! shows what small gestures can mean for people on the run: the feeling of belonging and the hope for a better future."

Books for Topics - July Book of the Month "A unique counting book that's full of empathy and hope"

Books for Keeps Editor's Choice & 5-star review "the perfect starting point for conversations about this important topic"

Staff Pick for July 2020 on Love Reading 4 Kids

Book of the Week on Peters Books "a perfect situation book and also a lovely read"

Hollis reads Hello! on youtube

AUS/NZ Reviews

"Hollis Kurman is wonderful at writing about big topics in a counting book format for little people. Counting in Green helps young minds to understand how they help make changes to help the planet."

Lucy at love four reading Children's books blogger

"A must-have for a multicultural library!"

Anne Triffitt, Library Services student Children's / young adult lit blog

"... something so unique and special that you will want to read it over and over to let its power sink in."

Can you tell me a story Children's book blog

"A special and wonderful book which I highly recommend."

ALIA Children's and Youth Services Australian Library and Information Association

"My favourite page is the last one, where the grown up is saying, 'Welcome' on their sign and the kid is saying 'Thanks' on their sign."

Agnes An Australian 4yo reviews picture books (tweets by mum)

"Sometimes we just need to be human, show empathy, put ourselves in someone else’s shoes, try to imagine what their journey is like and be kind."

Diane Johns Blogger at Diane's Picture Book Favourites

August top 10 from Kids Books We Love

Kids Books we Love Children's Books blog

"So much more than a wonderful counting book - this is so heart-felt ♥️"

Tess & miss 7 Kids Books we Love Instagram blog

"... a refreshingly modern take on a traditional concept book, (and) tugs at the heartstrings with every turn of the page. Children of all ages will be compelled to return to this book again and again, as they shift from the pure joy of learning how to count, towards an understanding of complex ideas such as migration, inclusivity, and compassion."

Danniella Viera Buzz Words Books, e-mag for writers and illustrators for children

"A colourful counting delight with an important and special message."

Picture Book Book Club blog for Lovers of Picture Books

"This counting book by Hollis Kurman with illustrations by Barroux is a poignant book that centres on themes of migration, refugees and inclusivity...Not only is this beautifully illustrated, it educates children in a number of ways and is a great addition to an inclusive bookshelf."

Lucy Flisat Fun on Instagram

Hollis Kurman