Albie on His Way

Jutta Bauer, is one of Germany's best-known children’s book creators. In 2010 she received the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Medal for her “lasting contribution” as a children’s illustrator. She has also twice received the German Youth Literature Prize; the second time in recognition of her complete body of work. Jutta Bauer lives in her native city of Hamburg, Germany.

"Albie narrates this German import, with colorful, charming cartoons bringing the tale to life. Meanwhile, a second story deftly unfolds in a wordless series of black-and-white shaded scenes below each of Albie's episodes, detailing the porcine king's rather lonely existence–an understated yet resonant message that friendship and connection are what enrich life. Subtle and kindhearted." –Kirkus Reviews"There's more to this fable than a tidy ending and the sheer visual fun of seeing a squirrel in a full-body cast." –The Horn Book"The king sends Albie to deliver a message to a neighboring castle, but Albie is delayed along the way as he helps others and falls in love. Meanwhile, life at the castle goes on. Albie and the king’s tales are told in twin narratives: Albie’s with text and humorous illustration; the king’s below in an illustrated wordless banner. Stories merge again for a satisfying conclusion."–Reading Rockets"Hard not to be charmed by the old story-within-a-story genre. . . Both storylines actually turn out to be equally engaging, which is no small feat. . . .Then everyone from Albie’s adventures ends up moving next door to the king, making this one of the sweetest little endings I ever did see."–Betsy Bird, Fuse#8 Blog/School Library Journal"Reading aloud, Albie on His Way, with a journey to discuss and a map to refer to at the end would absolutely encourage a chorus of; “read it again!”.  When the King (a pig with a fondness for his pet dog) sends Albie on a journey to the neighboring kingdom, there is a “story within a story” below on every page.  Somewhat like a cartoon strip it shows the King waiting for Albie to return, it has the makings of a country-western song, with a beloved dog who dies and grief that lingers, a marriage that fails, and great happiness when Albie returns. The little vingettes of the king’s life are comedic genius.  I saw that story as the secret story just for me. Jutta Bauer deftly reminds me, as I am at home reading other’s journeys, life is happening to me as well."–Paula Holmes, World Kid Lit