By Ian Falconer
ISBN: 0689860889
Since her debut in 2000, Olivia has been one busy pig. She’s been to Venice, started a band, saved the circus, and in 2009 she got her own tv show! But it all started with this book, simply titled Olivia
.
.Many say that it’s Ian Falconer’s brilliant illustrations that have made Olivia
a hit, but I think that’s unfair. Yes. The illustrations are singular in style and I personally adore them for their bold simplicity. They also captivate small children and babies who are unable to appreciate the storyline. (It is said that black, white, and red color combinations attract and hold a baby’s attention the best, which no doubt inspired the release of Olivia 
board books.)
a hit, but I think that’s unfair. Yes. The illustrations are singular in style and I personally adore them for their bold simplicity. They also captivate small children and babies who are unable to appreciate the storyline. (It is said that black, white, and red color combinations attract and hold a baby’s attention the best, which no doubt inspired the release of Olivia board books.)
 |
| Ian Falconer with Olivia |
But I think what makes the book so captivating is the co-dependence of the written words and the illustrations to tell the story. This kind of strategy is seen in some of the best storybooks, and Ian Falconer has certainly perfected it. It encourages children to process what they hear read aloud, relate it to the pictures they see, and draw their own conclusions. This kind of “discovery” is thrilling for a toddler, and makes the story all the more real to them. It’s also an artful way to “show” Olivia’s precocious personality instead of trying to “tell” it. (Ever tried to explain to a three year old what "precocious" means? You may have thought you were successful, but odds are they tuned out after the first sentence.)
While the ideal age for this book is 3-6 years old, there’s something there to amuse children of all ages (and parents too). Olivia bundles all the best of children’s literature into one beautiful book that you and your child will enjoy reading time and again. It also makes a wonderful gift for a new or expecting parent!
Print out this fun activity sheet for your child, made available by publisher Simon and Schuster.
