$14.99
Type: Picture Book
Pages: 56
Format: Paperback 
Publication: April 6, 2021
ISBN: 9781646140398

what ollie saw

by Joukje Akveld

Illustrated by Sieb Posthuma

Translated by Bill Nagelkerke

Ollie doesn’t see things the same way everybody else does (and he certainly doesn’t see things the same way his older sister does). Instead of cars in traffic, Ollie sees a circus parade. Instead of cows grazing in a field, Ollie sees deadly bison with sharp horns and hooves. And at school, instead of letters on the board, Ollie sees birds with pointy beaks, and fish with flapping tails in the big blue sea.

Ollie knows he doesn't need glasses, because he likes the world better the way he sees it. But will his parents and bossy sister see things his way?


Zoomed in portion of cover: shows an up close of an illustrated pig's face wearing glasses.

PRAISE

★ “Ideal for shelves about outsiders and those who march to that different beat, this encourages all children to view the world with wonder.”

—School Library Journal (starred review)

“Posthuma’s neat borders, pale colors inside fine outlines, and steady visual restraint in even the outlandish scenes make for a tale that’s quirky yet calming.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“Does Ollie really need glasses? Or is he just a pig who sees the world his own way? Posthuma’s subversive drawings are full of snarky mirth. In a fine translation by Nagelkerke, Akveld champions staying true to oneself, no matter what others indicate those letters on the eye chart are.”

—Publishers Weekly

“Posthuma’s ink-and-wash drawings put off strong William Steig vibes in this Dutch picture book about a young pig whose diminished eyesight encourages an active imagination.”

Publishers Weekly (Hot off the Press)




 

About Joukje Akveld

Joukje Akveld studied Dutch and has worked for various publishing houses. As a journalist, she writes about children’s books and theatre for newspapers and magazines, while also writing her own books.

Joukje Akveld
 

 

About Sieb Posthuma

Sieb Posthuma was an award-winning Dutch illustrator whose books have been published around the world. His work has been adapted into television shows, theater, opera, and shown in numerous expositions.

Sieb Posthuma
 

 

about bill nagelkerke

Bill Nagelkerke is a prolific children’s writer, translator, and former librarian. His stories, poems and plays have appeared in many New Zealand anthologies. In 2013 Nagelkerke was awarded the Storylines Margaret Mahy Medal and Lecture Award in recognition of his dedicated contribution to children’s literature and literacy in New Zealand.

Bill Nagelkerke