Oliver

Once upon a time, there was a little girl called Evi. She loved to dance, and she danced with all her heart. But when others were watching, she felt her legs tremble and refuse to obey her. So, little by little, she forgot what it was like to dance… The tender story of Evi, who transforms from a shy little girl into a joyful dancer, encourages every child to express themselves freely, for whatever they love. From the award-winning illustrator and author Birgitta Sif, who brought us Oliver.

Oliver felt a bit different. He enjoyed his solitude. He made up stories with his imaginary friends and his toys, and enjoyed their company. Until one day, while chasing his ball, he met Olivia! A sweet story for anyone who has ever felt different… The book was warmly received by readers and critics alike. It was published simultaneously in 2012 in English and Icelandic and has already been translated into over ten languages. It received the Dimmalimm Prize, the Icelandic Illustrator Award, and is a nominee for the Nordic Council’s Children and Young People’s Literature Prize and the UKLA Book Award 2014, in the 3–6 age category. The latest paperback English edition includes the following note: Amnesty International supports this book because it reminds us that every person is born free and equal to others, and we all have our own thoughts and our own opinions. These are some of the fundamental human rights. Watch [here](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHM1newwS98) the author talking about herself and reading Oliver’s tender story.

Hugo, the pigeon, is the park’s guardian! He looks after the park and the people who live around it. But in the neighbourhood lives a girl who never comes out to play. And Hugo cares about her. Will the two of them manage to become friends? A charming story about the value of friendship and interacting with those around us, with the vivid illustrations of Birgitta Sif, creator of the books Evi Dances and Dances and Oliver.

It’s worth trying again when everything falls apart. You don’t have to be good at something straight away. Cherish the small, quiet moments. A little book of wisdom to keep in your heart forever. Birgitta Sif, creator of the books Evi Just Keeps Dancing and Oliver, draws inspiration from her daughters and returns with a new, comprehensive book; a wonderful collection of eight life lessons, eight stories full of warmth and love that can inspire every reader. ‘I wrote this book for my strong and brave daughters. It is a collection of my thoughts and love for them, for them to read, enjoy and find courage in as they grow up.’ ―Birgitta Sif

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