Bárður Oskarsson wins The White Ravens award for picture book “Bob”

Bárður Oskarsson has received The White Ravens award this year for his picture book, “Bob.”

The White Ravens is a selection of international high-quality children’s and youth literature. Each year, the International Youth Library chooses around 200 noteworthy new books for children and adolescents. This year, 216 books were selected from 62 countries and published in 44 languages, including Oskarsson’s “Bob.”

The selection process is based on reviews and free copies received by the library throughout the year. The committee emphasizes works with strong literary and visual appeal, as well as themes that resonate with an international readership.

“Bob” tells the story of a rabbit named Bob, who is in search of the perfect carrot. His journey of choice presents challenges. The White Ravens committee describes Bárður Oskarsson as a master of minimalist illustrations and straightforward prose. His short stories about the rabbit and a dog may seem simple, but they possess both depth and philosophical undertones.

This marks the fifth time that Bárður Oskarsson has received The White Ravens award. “Bob” was published by the Book Department of the Føroya Lærarafelag in the spring and has already been released in Denmark, receiving excellent reviews. The rights to “Bob” have also been sold to the USA, with interest from several other countries as well.