The Boy with Flowers in his Hair by Jarvis

Walker Books have kindly provided us with a Q&A with creator Jarvis about his latest book, The Boy with Flowers in his Hair.

 

How did you feel the first time you drew the actual boy with flowers in his hair? What were your instincts about this character at the time?

I knew there had to be a story there. I didn’t know what it was, but I knew that the character was visually strong. I knew I didn’t want the story to be about how his flowers made him feel different. I wanted the boy to be accepted from the beginning. Children are often accepting of difference, much more than adults!

 What was your favourite picture book as a child?

I was obsessed with the Bash Street Kids comics and Dennis the Menace. Other picture books I was drawn to were Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas and Fungus the Bogeyman. I remember poring over the details in both and not really reading the words that seemed to be crammed in every gap.

Do you have a favourite detail or illustration in the book?

For me the cover is the best I have made. It’s simple, expressive, intriguing, colourful and has life. And it was one of the first things I made for the book.

As a brilliant illustrator yourself, do you have an illustrator you admire?

I like the energy of Ralph Steadman. I like the cosiness of Raymond Briggs. I like the bold simplicity of Ezra Jack Keats. I like the joyfulness of Bob Shea. I like Christian Robinson, Marta Altés and Fred Blunt and many more; I’m always looking for new books to admire.

 

Check out the trailer for The Boy with Flowers in his Hair!!

There are some brilliant teachers’ notes to accompany this title! Check out https://www.walker.co.uk/ for links and ideas!