Although Oliver’s preference is often to be alone in his head, what he really wants is a friend - a real friend to share things with, and who doesn’t mind him being himself. One day Oliver’s games unexpectedly lead him somewhere new, and he meets Olivia, who might just be what he’s been hoping for.
Children who feel “different” may recognise themselves in Oliver. Surprisingly muted colours help create his world, and as a good picture book should, Oliver uses both words and pictures to tell the story, through which we hear, see and feel the character’s emotions.
Oliver, which won Birgitta Sif the 2013 Icelandic Illustrators’ Awards, was described by the judges’ panel as having humour and a poetical atmosphere. It’s the first picture book for Icelandic-born Sif, whose style gently depicts the curiosity and melancholy of her slightly quirky characters.
A story with an important message and uplifting ending.
Title: Oliver
Author/Illustrator: Birgitta Sif
Publisher: Walker Books, $16.95 RRP
Publication Date: November 2013
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781406345360
For ages: 4+ years
Type: Picture book
