by Brigita Orel
Slovenian children’s books are rarely translated into other languages but when they are, they tend to represent the very best of what Slovenian authors have to offer. Among the following translations, there are award-winning books written by renowned authors and illustrated by internationally-acclaimed artists.
Written by Ida Mlakar Črnic
Illustrated by Peter Škerl
Translated by David Limon
Published by KUD Sodobnost
Close to Here sends a strong statement against prejudices and stereotypes through the story of two girls who observe a refugee girl. They are convinced they have nothing in common with the foreign girl. But once she disappears, they find her drawings which reveal a girl just like them.
Selected for the White Raven list, 2019
Written by Tina Arnuš Pupis
Illustrated by Marta Bartolj
Published by Crocodile Books
This book about body image is not only inspiring but can also be read from front to back and back to front! The masterful illustrations by Marta Bartolj and the affirmative conclusion of the story are a great way to start a discussion about self-confidence and body image with children.
Written by Žiga X. Gombač
Illustrated by Maja Kastelic
Translated by Olivia Hellewell
Published by NorthSouth Books
Everyone in the circus loves to perform – except for Adam, the youngest member of the Von Trapeze family. Will he find a way to express himself in the midst of his lively family? The sepia toned illustrations are absolutely gorgeous and make the circus world feel magical.
USBBY Outstanding International Book, 2024
Foreword Indies Book Award, finalist, March 2024
Pick and Pocket – Inspector Joe Is On The Case!
Written by Majda Koren
Illustrated by Damijan Stepančič
Published by CrackBoom! Books
This book offers 56 pages (27 short stories) of fun and intrigue when Inspector Joe is called in to track two mischievous pigs – Pick and Pocket. This is the first book in a series.
Frida and Arthur the Dragon in France
Written by Tatjana Pregl Kobe
Illustrated by Tina Dobrajc
Translated by Suncan Stone
Published by Cranachan
This is a narrative nonfiction book that takes readers on a journey to France where they will visit the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Louvre, the Lascaux cave and the Canal du Midi. On the way, they meet historical figures. Exquisitely illustrated and very appealing for all lovers of history and all things French.
About Brigita Orel
Brigita Orel lives in Slovenia where she works as a translator from English into Slovenian. In her spare time, she either reads books, writes them or researches them. Her picture book The Pirate Tree (Lantana) was Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year in 2020. She writes in English and Slovenian.
World Kid Lit 