Whatever Happened To My Sister? - Hardcover

Simona Ciraolo is a Sardinian born author and illustrator whose witty and endearing tales recently won her the Sebastian Walker Award. Ciraolo studied animation at the National Film School in Turin, Italy, before moving to the United Kingdom where she undertook an MA in children's book illustration at the Cambridge School of Art. She has also worked as a freelance 2D animator for children's TV shows and illustrated five picture books for an independent Italian publisher. Simona lives in South London.

"The art is arresting and amusing, a skillful combination of watercolor and other media, using a limited palette. [...] the book is noteworthy for taking the viewpoint of a younger sibling instead of the more common theme of a beleaguered older child. Gently humorous art and text transform a simple story into a haven for children feeling temporarily sibling-wary. A tender, whimsical look at growth, change, and sisters."
—Kirkus Reviews

"Ciraolo handles soft crayon with practiced (not to mention fashion-magazine-worthy) skill, drawing domestic scenes and clothing in a palette of warm grays and olives, accented with vivid orange. The advent of adolescence in an older sibling is a less common theme for a picture book, and Ciraolo treats it with style and charm."
—Publisher’s Weekly

"Rendered in muted watercolors and pencil, the illustrations display the action and a sense of isolation. Readers may see their own growing siblings reflected in this thoughtful book."
—School Library Journal

"I think this book is a very sweet way to address an age gap in siblings for children who have one or more older siblings starting adolescence. It is a great way to open discussion with them and I feel this book handles it in a respectful, applicable, and even charming way. The illustrations definitely add to the charm and I love the simple, muted color palette that Simona choose. It is one to definitely add to your library."
—Book Nerd Mommy

"Simona’s art style might seem simple at a first glance, but her illustrations are so evocative and emotive that you really don’t need any words to tell you the story. Her work is a wonderful addition to any bookshelf, children and adults alike!"
—Varsha Ravi, Between Bookends