Ian's picture book character Olivia is quite simply a giant. Not in size of course, but as a giant example of what it looks like to produce a epic picture book character. She has attitude, spunk, defiance and she is so funny. I will always be in awe of a story that flows as good as this one does. You don't even realise that you are turning pages until you reach the end. I guess this is what it means to be completely immersed in a story. Ian's pencilled lines and smudgy charcoal shadows that make up the characters are perfect. The ample white space adds to the easiness and satisfaction of the spreads. And the occasional use of collaged photos is just brilliant. It is no wonder that the Olivia series was a giant success. Bravo Ian Falconer.
© Ian Falconer
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