Around the World in Picture Books: Singapore 

Singapore's children's picture books are growing in numbers and there are several writers and illustrators who have made their name internationally. Here we highlight two books that were published in what can be said to be the early days of children's picture book publishing in Singapore.

1. The Bird Who Was Afraid Of Heights
Writtenby Farah Bagharib-Kaltz, illustrated by Eeshaun, published by Straits Times Press

Eddie was a mynah bird who lived behind an abandoned old house. Eddie was afraid of heights which was rather a problem. But Eddie had a good and only friend, Matt the rat and they got along just fine. However, one day, Matt was captured and Eddie had to find hidden resources within himself to save his friend.

The line illustrations in flat colours are effectively used in this picture book. The illustrations will certainly encourage children to pick up their pencils and start drawing. ​

2. Guai Wu the Chinese Elf
Written by Adeline Foo, illustrated by Christine Lim Simpson

Guai Wu was a little orphan boy. He looked different from other children. Because of this, they teased and shunned him. One rainy day, Guai Wu met a seamstress who took him into her house. She was a poor widow who had also lost her little girl. The seamstress let Guai Wu stay with her although she did not have much. Then, mysteriously, beautiful embroidered shoes started appearing in her home.
 
This story is similar to Grimm's The Elves and the Shoemaker with a different setting and in this case, the 'elf' is a real boy.

The detailed illustrations are a joy and complements the story very well.

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We are giving away picture books from different countries each month as part of our Around the World in Picture Books year-long programme. Get a chance to win with any purchase from Oyez! online bookstore!