First published 2020
A marzipan pig tumbles unnoticed behind a sofa, beginning an unexpected sequence of encounters. A mouse discovers the sweet treat and finds comfort for its broken heart. The story moves from creature to creature as each character experiences longing and connection. A grandfather clock feels isolated in its corner. An owl develops feelings for a taxi meter. A worker bee goes about its duties while a hibiscus flower slowly wilts. Another mouse welcomes morning with joyful dancing. Finally, a young boy appears who seems to understand how all these separate lives link together. Russell Hoban and Quentin Blake create a story that moves between sadness and joy, showing how small events ripple outward to touch different lives. The book captures both the pain and pleasure that fill ordinary moments, treating each character with equal importance whether human, animal, or object.
Genres: animals, fantasy, contemporary
Vibes: emotional-atmospheric, intimate, whimsical
Tropes: found-family, small-events-ripple-outward
48 pages · Paperback · Walker Books Ltd