The Tale of the Tiny Man

by Barbro Lindgren; illustrated by Eva Eriksson

Translated by Julia Marshall

A classic picture book from Sweden with a very happy ending about feeling lonely and finding friends. It is possible, after all, to have more than one friend!

There was once a tiny man. One day, at the first sign of Spring, he decided to pin a note to a tree that said FRIEND WANTED. Then he sat down on the step to wait.

After ten days, he woke to find a cold nose in his hand. Beside him was a big dog with a beautiful curve in its tail. The tiny man had made a friend at last.

They play and walk and laugh every day. But then the girl in the polka dot dress comes to the step. The little man watches as the dog put his soft muzzle into the girl’s hand and worries that he has lost his only friend.

A touching picture book that explores learning how to make and share friends, feelings of being left out and discovering group dynamics. Packed full of emotion, this hardback picture book also teaches young children about self-esteem and empathy. A perfect story to read aloud with preschoolers or for young children just starting out at reading by themself.

A much-loved classic children’s story in Sweden, this celebratory edition features new illustrations from Eva Eriksson, illustrator of the My Happy Life series. It has also been made into a successful theatre show.

Barbro Lindgren is a pioneering children’s author from Sweden. She has won many international awards, including the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award.

Eva Eriksson is one of the best-loved illustrators in Sweden, whose awards include the Astrid Lindgren prize and the August award.

Click here to see a short look inside video of The Tale of the Tiny Man

Recommended for young readers ages 4-7 years.

Hardcover, 23 x 19.5 cm.

Gecko Press.

Reviews:

"A poignant ode to fidelity and the simplicity of true friendship. Its appeal relies on powerfully defined characters, the main one being a tiny man in lieu of a child which means adults sharing this story with younger readers will enjoy its relatability as much as children." ~ Dimity Powell

"Beyond being a beautiful story that is in no way didactic, this would be perfect for use in the classroom as an invitation to explore ideas such as: making friends, how to be a friend, empathy, jealousy, loneliness, and self-esteem." ~ My Kids Read the World 

"And o! The drama! The pathos! The desolation! The joy! It’s ALL THE FEELINGS. And if the children in your life ask you to read it to them over and over and then some more, don’t be surprised." ~ Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast

"It made me feel sadness and happiness and you pick up something of friendship and loneliness along the way too. Another winning book from Gecko Press that’s for sure." ~ Radio Southland – The Book Show

"A timeless classic that is just as relevant today as it was when it was first written over 40 years ago." ~ Outside in the World

"The prose has a delicate poetry that you find in the most satisfying of picture books. For me this would make a perfect story to read aloud, all is resolved and yet readers are left to consider the plight of those who are left out, the beauty of friendship, and to empathise with those around them." ~ Just Imagine

"Thought-provoking and evocative with atmospheric illustrations, this is a memorable picture book story of friendship, understanding and acceptance that will resonate with younger readers." ~ School Reading List

"Themes of respect for others, consideration for the elderly and friendship fill the pages of this gorgeously illustrated story." ~ Scope for Imagination

"A charming children’s story about a friendless man who looks like Mr Magoo. Eva Eriksson’s illustrations are excellent at conveying the story’s changing moods." ~ The Book Beat bookstore

"Book of the Day. Audiences will also be “pleased as punch” over the tiny man’s turn in fortunes." ~ Foreword Reviews

"A sensitive, atmospheric story depicting the fragility and rewards of friendship." ~ Kirkus Reviews

"A precious tale of a lonely man’s friendship with a dog." ~ The Listener

"This is a very emotional read, beautifully written and very delicately and softly illustrated." ~ the Kids Bookstagrammer

"This beautifully told and illustrated story looks at various emotions including empathy, loneliness and prejudice. Whether read alone or aloud, there’s much to think about and one hopes, talk about with family members and/or classmates." ~ Red Reading Hub

"The sentences are as sweet as honey, even on the gloomiest page. The illustrations are warm and alive and captivating." ~ Poetry Box

"Gently exploring social prejudice and discrimination, this emotional story will tug at the heartstrings. Featuring classic illustrations, The Tale of the Tiny Man is a sweet story about loneliness and finding the perfect friend that will resonate with readers of all ages." ~ A Word About Books

"A story parents will want to choose for read-aloud interest and for discussions about friendship, loneliness, and making connections." ~ Donovan’s Literary Services