'Digger Digs Down' wins at the 2025 Tasmanian Literary Awards

Congratulations to Johanna Bell and Huni Melissa Bolliger on winning the Minister for the Arts' Prize for Books for Young Readers and Children at the 2025 Tasmanian Literary Awards for their book, Digger Digs Down.

The Tasmanian Literary Awards celebrate excellence in the Tasmanian literary sector, raise the profile of Tasmanian authors and foster literary talent in our State. They are administered by Arts Tasmania on behalf of the Tasmanian Government.

The Judges’ had this to say about Digger Digs Down:

Digger Digs Down, written by Johanna Bell and illustrated by Huni Melissa Bolliger, is an enchanting book set to captivate younger readers. When the lively and curious Digger is left alone, readers and listeners join the dog on a journey of discovery and imagination. Digger does what a dog knows best, digging down and digging deep, into a world of wonders. The story is brought to life through the synergy of text and illustrations, with playful sounds, alliteration, and inventive text placement enhancing the book’s philosophical undertones. Deceptively simple, yet deeply engaging, the book shows the relationship between Digger and their human companion. Initially sad to be separated, the return of Digger’s human friend prompts a new adventure as they disappear underground to explore the unknown together. High production values and dynamic storytelling invite readers to imagine, explore, and revel in the joys of creativity. This book is a celebration of imagination, curiosity, and the power of discovery which may lead to new ways of seeing the world.

A huge congratulations again to Johanna and Huni as well as all other shortlisted authors.