Illustrator Marion Deuchars introduces Bob the Artist – a small bird with big problems

Self-image and fitting in are a struggle when growing up, or indeed, throughout life. Bob the Artist by Marion Deuchars, published by Laurence King, is the story of a bird called Bob who goes on a journey of self-discovery in a life-affirming new book. Marion’s illustration and beautiful hand lettering tell the tale of the small bird who, through the power of art, discovers that he can be happy in his own body.

The charm of this short and joyous tale lies in the inventive ways Marion has presented the characters, managing to convey a lot using very little. A snarky cat is made using inky thumbprints and the simple shapes that make up the characters are expertly manipulated to give each a range of expressions. Bob the Artist follows her Let’s Make Some Great Art series and with this book the internationally celebrated illustrator continues her mission to encourage children to discover art in evermore engaging ways.