Dimensions
220 x 175 x 12mm
When the little multicoloured bug stays at home because he feels a bit sick, a mysterious new neighbour comes knocking at his door. Who is she and why does she look so different to him? As they talk about what to eat and what games to play, they discover that they can't agree on anything: they like very different things. But why, then, does the little neighbour bug make the multicoloured bug feel so happy? When his friends return home and discover the multicoloured bug smiling stupidly, they decide he must be very sick indeed.
Told with enduring and lovable characters, this story teaches young children about difference, tolerance and identity. Alemagna approaches these themes in a manner that is simple and fun, using repetitive language to make the story both comical and accessible for pre-school children.
This book is also unique for its stunning visual style – Beatrice invented a whole new technique of illustration specifically for these books. She experimented and searched until she found a technique that would effectively evoke the 'hairiness' and the warmth of the little bugs using a felted wool technique and an amalgam of applique, fabrics and stitching. This creates a surprisingly cosy and texture-rich world that reminds one of wool of an old blanket.
