Grandma’s Sandals Named a Finalist in the 2026 SLVR Children’s Book Awards
- Jodie Barton
- Aug 16
- 2 min read
10 August, 2026
Grandma’s Sandals has been named one of just three finalists in the 2026 SLVR Children’s Book Awards in the Celebrating Diversity category! ❤️
Of all the categories in which this little book could be recognised, this one feels especially meaningful.
The SLVR Children’s Book Awards celebrate excellence in self-published child
ren’s books and recognise the work of independent authors, illustrators and other creatives. The Celebrating Diversity category specifically honours stories that champion inclusivity and representation, helping children feel seen and valued while introducing young readers to different voices, cultures, abilities and experiences.
That sits so beautifully at the heart of why I wrote Grandma’s Sandals.
Long’s story was inspired by the migrant and refugee children I have had the privilege of teaching in an Intensive English Centre in Perth, Western Australia. I wanted to tell a story that acknowledged what it can feel like to arrive somewhere new while still carrying another home, another language, another culture and the people you love deeply within you. For me, Grandma’s Sandals has always been about giving a voice to children like Long while inviting other children to step gently into his world. To know that Long’s voice and story are being heard, and to see the book recognised specifically for celebrating diversity, is incredibly special.
I’m also enormously proud that Grandma’s Sandals was independently published through Winterpaw Books. The SLVR Children’s Book Awards were created specifically to recognise and celebrate the creativity, quality and dedication behind self-published children’s books, making this recognition particularly meaningful as an independent author and publisher.
A huge thank you to Little Ivory Haus and the SLVR Children’s Book Awards for recognising Grandma’s Sandals, and congratulations to the other wonderful finalists.
Whatever happens next, seeing Long standing there as one of three finalists in Celebrating Diversity already feels like a very special win. ❤️
Written by Jodie Barton | Illustrated by Ana Rodic | Winterpaw Books
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