In honour of my nephew’s first birthday a little while ago, I have written, illustrated and designed a children’s book starring him (as a hedgehog). I have always wanted to take a shot at writing and designing children’s books, and with online print-on-demand sites such as Lulu, my attempts can now come as close as possible to actual publication. Exciting!

This first installment in the Elias the Hedgehog series gives a glimpse into my little nephew’s life at this moment. His world is made up of a very small group of key people, his family; their lives in turn revolve around him. He happens to be exceptional at giving hugs, which he delivers with the kind of innocent and unashamed abandon that only a child can master. I want to remember him at this moment, and I want him to be able to look back and see himself as we did on that day. Happy Birthday, Elias.