The Suitcase

A weary animal arrives in a new place dragging a suitcase behind him. The animals he meets are very curious about its contents. He tells them what is inside but they are sceptical. To say more would give too much away about this important story that demonstrates simply and thoughtfully the necessity of being welcoming to strangers who are missing their home, as it benefits from an element of surprise on first reading.

Much of the text is a dialogue between the animal protagonists, the speaker indicated by the device of using the same colour font for their words as the colour of their fur or feathers. The strength and simplicity of this picture book’s message is enhanced by the use of a limited but carefully chosen palette set against white space.

Shortlisted for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2020