When the dedication of this lovely picture book says: 'To all those who have ever felt a bit different', we know that this story is going to be precisely about that. Oliver knows he is unusual. He likes being on his own with his toys and his books and his radio, and perhaps the fact that he wears glasses makes him feel different too. The library is a special place for Oliver and reading helps him to have adventures that take in faraway places and exciting things to do. But one evening when he plays the piano and his toy-friends take no notice, he begins to wonder if it wouldn't be nice to have someone else around to share his ideas and adventures with. The very next day, a wayward tennis ball takes him to a new place where he meets Olivia, who is also 'different' and together they begin a new life adventure. The wonderfully whacky pictures that illustrate the story show us that Olivia has actually been around all through Oliver's life, but neither of them has noticed. The angular lines, tall thin houses and spindly-legged people are different and unusual too, but mixed with their unusual-ness is the fact that there is lots of homely detail. Rooms have pictures and piles of books, and the cosy library is crammed with them. When the family comes round to tea, they all look happy and relaxed, even Oliver who is under the table (with Olivia looking on wistfully). Each person has a personality, and Oliver comes to realise, as do we, that everyone is different in his or her own way. An outstanding book that deserves whatever awards are going.