I Am So Strong

Mario Ramos (1958-2012) was one of Belgium's most influential picture book makers. He was born in Brussels to a Belgian mother and a Portuguese father. From early on he was fascinated by how much a small drawing can transmit: "What interests me is to tell a story with pictures. With a pencil and paper, anything is possible." He studied graphic communication, discovering the influential drawings of Saul Steinberg and Tomi Ungerer, then worked in illustration, publishing his first book in 1992. Ramos has since had numerous books published all over the world, and his awards include the Prix Versele and the Prix des Critiques en Belgique. His birthday, 7 November, is celebrated in France and Belgium as Mario Ramos Day. Mario Ramos (1958-2012) was one of Belgium's most influential picture book makers. He was born in Brussels to a Belgian mother and a Portuguese father. From early on he was fascinated by how much a small drawing can transmit: "What interests me is to tell a story with pictures. With a pencil and paper, anything is possible." He studied graphic communication, discovering the influential drawings of Saul Steinberg and Tomi Ungerer, then worked in illustration, publishing his first book in 1992. Ramos has since had numerous books published all over the world, and his awards include the Prix Versele and the Prix des Critiques en Belgique. His birthday, 7 November, is celebrated in France and Belgium as Mario Ramos Day.

"The only disappointment is that the book is over so soon. Better read it again." --Publishers Weekly"Children will enjoy the predictable question and answer pattern, brightly colored illustrations, and humorous ending. This book, translated from the original French, would be a perfect read-aloud choice." --Library Media Connection"Ramos's amazingly expressive characters show at first glance how each creature is feeling. The well-crafted illustrations make the book worth purchasing." --School Library Journal