The New Jumper, a picture book from the award winning Oliver Jeffers, oozes both style and wittiness in perfect doses. Oliver Jeffers’ ability to entrance with deceptively simply drawings, with carefully placed touches of colour, is definitely to be admired. I was absorbed by the Heuys as soon as I delved in Jeffers’ latest picture book.
Oliver Jeffers’ pencil drawn creations lead us straight in to the world of the Hueys where everyone looks the same, does the same thing and acts the same. That is until Rupert, the main character, decides he will go out on a bit of a limb … and knit a jumper!
Strange looks and confused comments ensue however Rupert takes it all on the chin and wears his beautiful, bright orange jumper with pride. Lo and behold the idea catches on. Being different is applauded. Everyone wants to be different.
The twist at the end will have you giggling, and here is where the power of The New Jumper lies. Oliver Jeffers deftly communicates a powerful lesson about being true to yourself without being heavy handed, instead he achieves it with a sly nod of the head and a knowing wink of the eye.
This is definitely one to add to your Oliver Jeffers collection and has even been awarded – New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Books 2012.
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