The author and illustrator Sandra Dieckmann, who works out of Hackney Downs Studios, has been nominated for her book Leaf, from Hackney publisher Flying Eye

East London author and illustrator Sandra Dieckmann has been nominated for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2018 in the illustrated books category.

Based in her studio Mama Wolf in Hackney Downs Studios, she creates a variety of work including editorial commissions, book illustrations and clothing. Her book, Leaf, was published in June 2017 by Flying Eye, a publisher also based in Hackney.

Flying Eye has another shortlisted book in the category: The Secret of Black Rock by Joe Todd-Stanton.

Dieckmann is “absolutely thrilled” to be shortlisted.

“Leaf is my first book as author and illustrator and the journey of writing and making it has been a real adventure for me,” she says. “To be honoured with this nomination now makes it all the more special. I didn’t expect it and feel very honoured to be recognised in this way so early on in my picture book career. Many thanks to everyone involved in the nominating process and I cannot wait to see the other wonderful books that are in the running this year.”

Leaf tells the story of a polar bear who unexpectedly arrives in the woods, arousing fear in the other animals who believe he is a danger to them. They are even more suspicious when they notice him collecting leaves, until they see him fashion them into wings and attempt to fly over the water, trying to get home.

The prize-winners from each category will receive £2000, while an overall winner will receive a further £3000, announced on March 22.

Last year’s winner, The Girl of Ink and Stars went straight to the top of the bestseller charts and saw an increase in sales of more than 1400 per cent.

Dieckmann sells books, prints, cards, t-shirts and notebooks from her Etsy store and more information can be found at her website: www.sandradieckmann.com