The king and the Sea by Heinz Janisch and Wolf Erlbruch

Our Verdict: Very short stories but big in meaning

Our Rating: 10/10

The King and the Sea is a series of 21 very short stories. As short as four lines in places. But somehow it works and each story is thought provoking for adults and stimulating for children.

For example, The King and the Ghost

“I don’t believe in ghosts,” said the king.
“I don’t believe in kings,” said the ghost.
“Then one of us must be mistaken,” said the king.
“So it seems,” said the ghost, spiriting himself away.

The illustrations are simple with a 70s children’s picture book flavour to them.

The age recommendation is 8 years upwards, which feels a correct fit.

Ideally placed next to the Aesop’s Fables.

Hardbook £9.00
Gecko Press