Trip to the Hospital

Freda Chiu is an author and illustrator from Sydney, Australia. As well as illustrating children's books, her work spans comics, editorial and retail graphics. Outside her art practice, Freda lectures in Illustration at the University of Technology Sydney. A Trip to the Hospital is her debut picture book.

'There are many things to love about Chiu's bright and dynamic debut picture book. The clear, simple language; the inclusiveness of the illustrations (workers, visitors, patients and families); the breadth of information, covering emergency visits, scheduled operations, recovery and rehabilitation; and the person-centred focus and capabilities of hospital staff. Chiu spent time researching the book with the team at Liverpool Hospital's paediatric ward and emergency department, and it shows. Some of the team are even illustrated as characters. The inclusion of a 'Did you know?' page at the back of the book highlights related facts and achievements of Australian doctors and scientists. This is a timely and important book, especially with the pandemic still looming but also for long afterwards.' Reading Time'Talented Sydney-based author and illustrator Freda Chiu's first picture book is timely, providing a reassuring introduction to hospitals for children ... Design to allay fears and be comforting in an often new and overwhelming environment, Chiu, with her lovely bright pictures of friendly nurses and doctors, brilliantly succeeds in bringing not only reassurance but delight to little readers who might need to spend time in hospital ... the ideal antidote to worry for both children and their parents.' The Chronicle'A tribute to the health workers who work with kids. Chiu's research included consulting with doctors and hospital staff to ensure accuracy, and her book introduces readers to healthcare "superheroes" -- including a paediatrician, porter, physiotherapist and paramedic.' The West Australian