Romania
197
Petrlik Huseinović, Andrea (text/illus.)
Maleni (The Little One)
Zagreb : Kašmir Promet, 2006. – [28] p.
ISBN 953-6613-90-5
Otherness – Outsider – Hatred
A witch casts a spell on the inhabitants of Nowhere, so that they turn into a hateful and grumpy lot. The Little One who lives on the outskirts of the town is the only one to escape the spell. Filled with evil thoughts, the Nowherians now notice that the Little One is different and drive him away. He leaves the country and braves many adventures and tests until he finally finds a new home in a lighthouse. With the help of its bright beam, he plans to light other people the way. This picture book against envy, hatred, and malice encourages children to develop an understanding towards others and shows them the dire consequences that may arise from excluding people who are different. The illustrations in various shades of crimson and purple intensify the story’s melancholic mood. (4+) <>
198
Pongrašić, Zoran
Vidi majmuna! (Look at that monkey!)
Zagreb : Autorska Kuća, 2005. – 161 p.
(Novi grafiti)
ISBN 953-7199-06-1
Biracial person – Racism – Prejudice
This novel, written in a witty style and peppered with colloquial expressions and teenage jargon, focuses on Zvonimir, the son of axe "Biracial person" Kenyan vet and a Croatian doctor. When he moves from Nairobi to Zagreb, he faces severe problems because of his skin colour and the Europeans’ prejudice against Africans. By introducing his protagonist as first-person narrator, the author can freely deal with taboo topics associated with racial discrimination. Although Zvonimir handles his status as outsider in a laid-back manner, his classmates’ stupid questions provoke him to dish up loads of tall tales. Afterwards, of course, he has to face the music. True, the novel does not end happily ever after but at least Zvonimir manages to regain his self-confidence. (12+) <>