The exhibition, which coincides with the centenary of the Gallipoli landing, features illustrations from contemporary Australian books for children about war and conflict.

Many of the books have recently been published to mark the centenary of the start of World War I.

Included in the exhibition is the cover art of the 2013 book An Anzac Tale by Greg Holfeld.

Holfeld uses animals to portray the characters, in an attempt to captivate his young audience, which he thinks is more likely to engage with animals than steely-jawed soldiers.

By doing this he also erases the character's age, ethnicity and gender, which invites the audience to step into their shoes.

Other creators in the exhibition include Mark Wilson, Kerrie Greenwood, Shaun Tan, Alison Lester and Julie Vivas.

Public programs co-ordinator Carol Edmonds said her favourite illustration was Andrew McLean's Along The Road To Gundagai, which complemented the classic Australian song "to a tee".

■ Anzac Illustrated is showing at the Lovett Gallery, 2nd Floor, Newcastle Region Library until May 2.

The gallery is open all day Monday to Friday and Saturday until 2pm.

Entry is by gold coin donation.