Philip Hopman is a Dutch illustrator of children’s books who has illustrated more than 250 books since 1988, including A Dog Like Sam (Eerdmans), Earth to Stella (Clarion), and 22 Orphans (Kane/Miller) .

Get On Your Bike

Joukje Akveld
Philip Hopman
Ages 4 to 8

HARDCOVER

An inviting book about resolving conflicts

Bobby and William aren’t quite sure how the argument started, but it escalates until William gets so frustrated he tells Bobby to leave. Bobby does just that, hopping on his bike and furiously riding away. As he travels through the city and into the country­side, though, he begins to calm down. Maybe William had a point after all? Bobby bikes back into town, hoping William will forgive him, and discovers that he’s not the only one who wants to apologize. With mesmerizing illustrations reminiscent of Richard Scarry, this vibrant book offers a sensitive, realistic portrayal of a conflict. . .and a compromise.

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Soldier Bear

Written by Bibi Dumon Tak
Illustrated byPhilip Hopman

Translated by Laura Watkinson

Winner of the 2012 Batchelder Award

Based on a real series of events that happened during World War II, Soldier Bear tells the story of an orphaned bear cub adopted by a group of Polish soldiers in Iran. The soldiers raise the bear and eventually enlist him as a soldier to ensure that he stays with the company. He travels with them from Iran to Italy, and then on to Scotland. Voytek’s mischief gets him into trouble along the way, but he also provides some unexpected encouragement for the soldiers amidst the reality of war: Voytek learns to carry bombs for the company, saves the camp from a spy, and keeps them constantly entertained with his antics.

Always powerful and surprising, Bibi Dumon Tak’s story offers readers a glimpse at this fascinating piece of history.

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Mikis and the Donkey

Written by Bibi Dumon Tak
Illustrated by Philip Hopman

Another moving animal tale from the award-winning author of Soldier Bear

One day, Mikis’s grandfather has a surprise for him: a new donkey waiting! Mikis falls in love with the creature, but his grandparents tell him that the donkey is a working animal, not a pet. However, they still let Mikis choose her name — Tsaki — and allow the two of them to spend their Sundays together. Mikis and Tsaki soon become fast friends, and together the two have some grand adventures. Eventually, both Mikis and his grandfather learn a bit more about what exactly it means to care for another creature.

Brought to life by drawings from Philip Hopman, Bibi Dumon Tak’s gentle, humorous story is perfect for any readers who may have their own soft spot for animals.


“This Dutch import offers a glimpse of a far-off land and a gentle lesson on caring for animals. . . . Those children who do connect with Dumon Tak’s sweet, quiet tale are likely to find it will resonate deeply.” — Kirkus Reviews

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