Ian Falconer did not start out illustrating picture books, but the picture book world is so lucky that he found his calling. He first made a mark on the art world by working with David Hockney on sets and costumes for stage productions in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and London. He has also been an illustrator for The New Yorker. His picture book career began with the birth of his niece, who's name of course is Olivia. I should mention that the first Olivia book came about just after my own Olivia entered our lives, so the books are extra special to me.
His first book, Olivia, won a Caldecott Honor in 2001. I love so many things about this book! The illustrations are wonderfully minimalist, with just highlights of red against the main palette of black, white and grey. He doesn't need a lot of detail to tell a wonderful story and the expressions of the characters really stand out. Olivia as a character is wonderful. She is a delightful individualist who knows just what she wants. She never runs out of energy, although her Mom does. I love her spunk, spirit and imagination. She is a little pig who has big dreams and plans to fulfill them all. One funny coincidence is that like Ian Falconer's character, my Olivia also hates the color green!
Of course, when you have a child named Olivia, she will receive lots of Olivia the pig books and merchandise. My Olivia has received all of the books, a stuffed Olivia, an Olivia beach bag, etc. I have to relate that her favorite of all the Olivia books, so far, is Olivia Forms a Band. The illustration of Olivia putting on bright red lipstick would elicit squeals of laughter every time she got to that page. She also love the Mom's reaction "Wipe that goop off your face young lady and get in the car now!" The illustration above was one that did not make it into the final book - the actual illustration is even funnier!!
So, if you are looking for a spunky heroine for your children, check out the Olivia books - especially if you have an Olivia of your own! Here's my little Olivia wearing a piggy hat:
No comments:
Post a Comment