There are Cats in this Book

by Viviane Schwarz

Previously shortlisted for the V&A illustration award, Schwarz has now created a simple story about a familiar situation, so that the very youngest readers can learn how to move through a book, turning the pages and lifting the flaps.

The cats investigate boxes, play with wool and snuggle down under pillows and blankets, with much of the action revealed under the flaps.

Cleverly, the resolution to one page is usually found on the next, and there is constant encouragement to turn over to discover it.

Combining energetic, minimal drawings, with the cats directly addressing their readers via speech bubbles, Schwarz tells us not only about cats and their habits but also about the compulsive and interactive nature of enjoying books.

Publisher: Walker Books

Viviane Schwarz

Viviane Schwarz was born in Germany. She studied English at university while writing fantasy stories to practice, then she moved to Cornwall, England, and got a master’s degree in Illustration. She sold her first picture book text while she was still in college. She very much liked living by the sea, and most of her books feature at least one underwater scene and lots of fish.

After moving to London Viviane started illustrating as well as writing books. Her books include There are Cats in this Book and There are No Cats in this Book (both Walker Books).

She was chosen for a Booktrust Best New Illustrators Award in 2011.

Illustration Technique

Viviane uses mixed media and precise colouring techniques to create her fun and quirky illustrations for books such as There Are No Cats in This Book. Her main aim is to inspire and encourage creativity in others through her work.

http://www.vivianeschwarz.co.uk/

Viviane Schwarz