This latest book from an enormously talented creator so beautifully parallels simplicity with deep meaning, it boggles the mind. And also delights it.
Louis is standing on a hill when a paper crown whisks across the ground and lands in front of him. Placing it on his head, and startled by this extreme and random act of fortune, the sheep rises up and declares himself Louis I, King of the Sheep.
From thence forth, Louis reigns supreme, lording it over his domain and his fellow animals, eventually to the point of tyranny. Until ... his reign is cut short in the most simple of ways, it will leave you breathless.
Hoisting high a formidable message on how easily the 'great' can fall, this is a masterfully told story. And the illustrations! The illustrations! A divine series of full page scenes, preceded and ended with white-surround vignettes--they will seriously pull at the heart strings
If you're a fan of Oliver Jeffers, you simply must check out Olivier Tallec.
One of my favourite books of 2015, this will take pride of place on my desk as a true work of art for many months to come.
All humans should read this. And sheep, too ... especially those with a penchant for delusions of grandeur.
Title: Louis I, King of the Sheep
Author/Illustrator: Olivier Tallec
Publisher: Enchanted Lion, $22.99 RRP
Publication Date: 1 December 2015
Format: Hard cover with dust jacket, large format
ISBN: 9781592701858
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book
