Spiky

Description

Age range 4 to 8 When Spiky loses his spikes, he must learn to share his softer side. Spiky lives in the dark of the forest, where he spends his days being very, very bad, bullying the other forest creatures and sharpening the spikes on his body. Those spikes are handy for keeping everybody at a distance, and that's just how Spiky likes it! But then one day the unthinkable happens: Spiky starts losing his spikes! Soon he is left looking as soft and as pink as a soft, pink marshmallow. What will Spiky do, now that he can no longer scare away the other forest creatures? Will he have to (gulp!) make friends? It's a good thing Bernardo the bunny comes along to show him how it's done. First published in Italy, this charming story of friendship will have children giggling until the very end.

Ilaria Guarducci studied at the Nemo NT Academy of Digital Arts. Since 2012, she has worked as a freelance author and illustrator for various publishing houses and advertising agencies. She has written and/or illustrated seven children's books. Spiky, published in Italy under the title Spino, was shortlisted for the Soligatto Award for Best Picture Book. Ilaria lives with her family in Prato, Italy. Learn more at www.ilariaguarducci.blogspot.com.

"Published originally in Italy and newly translated, this quirky self-discovery story features a descriptive, fairy tale-like narrative...Guarducci's vibrant, cartoonish illustrations incorporate some comical touches, like Spiky wearing pink slippers at home, which kids might chuckle over. Spiky's initial over-the-top maliciousness may potentially upset younger ones, though his transformation ultimately offers a positive message about kindness and what it means to have-and be-a friend." -Booklist