Moomin and the Birthday Button

Jansson's Moomins have entertained young readers for sixty-five years, and Puffin are celebrating this by publishing a new series of picture books using the author's original characters and artwork whilst creating newly adapted storylines.

In this, the first, we meet many familiar Jansson creations, as Moomin fears that they have forgotten his birthday and are too busy to talk to him. Pre-school children will relate to this fear, and gain reassurance from the denouement: a surprise present and a party, making this an ideal bedtime story.

Bold use of colour, with the characters placed against unfussy backgrounds and well-designed printing on the page layouts enhance the original drawings, preserving the unique blend of northern landscape with imaginary buildings and creatures.