Keeping up with Findus

'The characters are quirky and original, and illustrations are absolutely delightful ... I can't recommend them highly enough.' Philip Pullman ... more delightful comedy with the lovable characters of Farmer Pettson and Findus, the talking cat, in a smaller format book aimed at slightly younger readers. As ever, the eccentricities in the characterisation, humorous conversations between Findus and Pettson and the captivating illustrations retain the charm of the Findus series. * OutsideinWorld.org.uk * '...the pictures create a world, not only depicting the farmhouse and surrounding countryside in irresistible detail, but also telling humorous little sub-narratives about the tiny creatures that live about the farm' Nicolette Jones, The Sunday times Yes, it can be hard keeping up with Findus. He's a hyper-active cat who never stops. But Hawthorn Press are doing well with their publishing of Sven Nordqvist's Findus and Pettson in translation by Nathan Large. This latest book is original 2019 vintage and just as enjoyable as the previous ones have been. You have to feel a little sorry for Pettson. He's old (-ish) and wants a quiet life, but with a cat like Findus, what can you do? Well, you can refuse to 'hop on both feet and bounce all the way to the house.' But after that he gives in and gamely attempts Findus's challenges. You can guess who wins, can't you? This is another sweet story, and the appletree climbing took me straight back to my childhood summer paradise. The nostalgia almost made me cry. And I must point out that my paradise had no apple tree in it. That's how strong the Pettson and Findus magic is. I hope children will never grow too old or too cool for this kind of book. * Bookwitch * I've been sent 'Keeping up with Findus' by Sven Nordqvist. Findus the talking cat and Pettson the farmer in another of their adventures of mayhem and fun from the well-known Swedish illustrator and writer. In this story, Findus challenges Pettson to some physical stunts, and Pettson gives it a go with hilarious consequences, and a happy ending with a picnic of cinnamon buns and meatballs. * Blog: www.itsallaboutstories.blogspot.co.uk *

SVEN NORDQVIST (b. 1946) is a well-loved Swedish children's illustrator and writer. The Findus and Pettson stories draw on his playful adventures with his two young sons, and his unique illustrations are inspired by a delight in everyday life. Through his Findus series, Nordqvist hopes to create a world in which problems can find resolution, encouraging creative and practical thinking with his funny and charming narratives and playful and industrious characters.