On Thursday, the 8th of February, the most beautiful Estonian children’s books of 2017 were announced at the National Library of Estonia. The jury valued high quality illustrations, as well as design, typography, and the appropriate choice of material.
In an outstandingly designed children’s book, all the above-mentioned characteristics are well balanced. Altogether 40 books took part in the competition.
The chosen books can be seen on the 6th floor of the National Library of Estonia from the 8th of February until the 3rd of March. The books will also be exhibited at the Bologna Book Fair 2018.
The competition of the best designed Estonian books has taken place since 1998. This year it was organised by the Estonian Graphic Designers Association, the Estonian Publishers’ Association, the Estonian Children’s Literature Centre, the National Library of Estonia, and the Association of Estonian Printing Industry.
THE BEST DESIGNED ESTONIAN CHILDREN’S BOOKS IN 2017 WERE:
Three Autumns by Jaanus Vaiksoo. Designed by Kadi Kurema and Anne Linnamägi. Illustrated by Kadi Kurema.
A nice ensemble. The intaglio illustrations carry the long Estonian tradition of printmaking. A skillful synthesis of print and drawing.
How the Animals Got their Tails. Designed and illustrated by Catherine Zarip.
With its stylish colour scheme and refined handling of details this volume represents the best traditions of Estonian children’s books.
Mr. Nightingale from Nightjar Street by Ellen Niit. Designed by Endla Toots. Illustrated by Priit Pärn.
A well-designed and well-balanced book. Detailed, compelling and uncompromising illustrations. Novel and unique interpretation of a children’s literature classic. Professional choice of materials.
Great Tit Spreads its Wings by Paul-Eerik Rummo. Designed by Andres Tali. Illustrated by Kaido Ole.
A surprising children’s book. A rather unexpected yet highly skilled use of top rate art. A joyful and non-clichéd approach to the literary material.
The Visit by Anti Saar. Designed and illustrated by Anna Ring.
A skillfully composed book which combines fiction with educational material. Novel, fresh and unique style of illustration. Playful and professional design.
Spezial prize of the Jury:
Susie and the Slippery Sleep by Reeli Reinaus. Designed and illustrated by Marge Nelk.
A novel approach to Estonian children’s illustration. Collage pictures that depict dreamy fantasy worlds.
Special prize of the Estonian Graphic Designers’ Union:
Please Come Yesterday by Joel Sang. Designed by Mari Kaljuste. Illustrated by Anne Pikkov.
Intelligent design springing from the style of the illustrations. Skillful use of two-colour print.
Special prize of the Estonian Graphic Designers’ Union
FOLLOWING CHILDREN’S BOOKS WERE CHOSEN AMONG THE 25 BEST DESIGNED ESTONIAN BOOKS:
Physics Primer by Heli Lukner, Mare Müürsepp. Designed by Angelika Schneider
A handy science book for children, where the complex scientific material is presented in a simple yet well-structured way.
From Hurt to Pärn by Jaak Urmet. Designed and illustrated by Karel Korp
The rather eclectic material has been crafted into a fine sum total. The illustrations and layout are lively and joyful, in perfect harmony with the contents.
The Boy Who Drew Maps by Kätlin Vainola. Designed and illustrated by Ulla Saar
Dashing and sweeping illustrations combine well with the uncluttered layout; refreshing cover material.
Catherine and the Peas by Kadri Hinrikus. Designed by Endla Toots. Illustrated by Anne Pikkov
A classic, compact children’s book. Typography has regard for the young reader and the text does not smother the pictures.
Through the Black Hole by Tiit Kändler. Designed and illustrated by Eerik Kändler
A striking, dynamic science book for children; text and illustrations are proportioned in sweet harmony.
Great Tit Spreads its Wings by Paul-Eerik Rummo. Designed by Andres Tali. Illustrated by Kaido Ole
Such visual bacchanal of illustrations is a rare sight. Meant for children, but can also be enjoyed by an older generation.
Bear’s Paws by Milvi Pank. Designed by Katrin Kaev. Illustrated by Mare Hunt.
Warm and sensitive design, illustrated by merry and playful collages. Not at all a traditional approach.
Maarius, Magic, and Liisi the Werewold by Reeli Reinaus. Designed and illustrated by Marja-Liisa Plats
+ Special prize of the Estonian Children’s Literature Centre
A stylish ensemble boasting outstanding design and great typography. Delightful colour scheme, albeit a bit unexpected in a children’s book.
Source: National Library of Estonia
From the 1st of March 2018, the Culture Club Przegorzały in Kraków presents the exhibition “Once Upon a Time…”. It is an extraordinary exhibition introducing Estonian illustration that travelled around Italy for two years. The illustrations thematise internationally known fairy tales by the brothers Grimm.
Lastekirjanduse žürii koosseisus Ilona Kivirähk (esimees), Janno Põldma ja Helena Koch, valis Kultuurkapitali aastaauhindadele kandideerima järgnevad teosed: 
