The great Margaret Mahy has gone and it is impossible to overestimate the influence she had on children's reading, their love of books, her role as a mentor for other children's writers in New Zealand and internationally, and the sense of fun she brought to reading. As many know she began her writing career, as did so many other prominent NZ writers and artists, in the School Journal. Our library holds much of her early work in this publication.
The NZ Herald's cartoon today is a poignant tribute to our greatest NZ writer whose memory will be enshrined in the fabulous legacy of work she left behind. We can all think of our favourite Mahy - mine is the Three legged cat - a quirky story about a three legged cat who yearns to see the "wide world" and how he manages to achieve his dream. If you have a favourite Mahy let us know. We will attempt to put it up on our current display.
Moe mai, Margaret and thanks!