Most Norwegians would recognise an illustration by Iben Sandemose when they see it. Sandemose is one of Norway’s most renowned illustrators and has brought joy to both children and adults with her fun and elegant energic illustrations.
Now, MacKenzie Smiles has just published the U.S. edition of Sandemose's "Gracie & Grandma" - a children's book about Gracie, who is picked up from kindergarden by Grandma. Gracie is busy sliding around and trying on boots, and is not ready to go home. But with a magical word from Grandma, Gracie finally joins her to her home - where someone is waiting.
Sandemose was born into an artistic family: her grandfather was the famous writer Aksel Sandemose – the man behind the term The Jante Law, the Nordic version of the tall poppy syndrome, and her father, Bjarne, used to work with the Norwegian puppet master Ivo Caprino. She has written and illustrated several of her own books, and made the illustrations for other’s work as well. Her work has previously been published in Sweden, Denmark and Japan. “Gracie & Grandma” is a colorful picture book for kids who have experience with kindergarden – and for all grandparents.
Sandemose’s American publisher, MacKenzie Smiles, has several Norwegian publications coming up. Among them the legendary sea serpent Ruffen, another popular children’s character by Tor Åge Bringsværd. The Ruffen books are beautifully illustrated by Thore Hansen. Check back for more updates on the U.S. release of Ruffen!