Representing the best
Finnish authors abroad
Finnish authors abroad
In this vibrant and inventive picture book, little Mai’s emotions come to life through the metaphorical tigers, providing children with a tangible representation of their own feelings.
As Mai wakes up to a rainy day, her plan to wear her new, pretty coat is shattered. Mai knows she will be made to don rain gear instead. At breakfast, Mai doesn’t feel like eating. There is an untamed tiger growling in her belly and Mai thinks it best not to feed it. Even her parents seem to be growling at each other.
Upon arriving at kindergarten, Mai discovers her best friend is absent, leaving her feeling adrift as all others have paired-up already. The metaphorical tigers within her wrestle, mirroring her inner turmoil. After lunch, the emotional tigers awaken once more…
However, Mai’s horribly terrible day takes an unexpected turn when Mai’s mother surprises her by picking her up early. Mai spends a happy evening with her parents – and remarkably, Mai’s tigers start to resemble ordinary cats — signalling another shift in her emotions.
Through its delightful and creative storytelling, ’Mai’s Horribly Terrible Day’ opens the door for discussions about emotions and the ways to address and express them.
Finnish edition
English translation set in layout
Estonian: Rahva raamat
German: Oetinger
“The Mai books turn everyday struggles into vivid adventures, where wonderful, expressive illustrations and age-appropriate and imaginative stories help children feel understood and less alone. Children will instantly recognize themselves in Mai: her fears, her frustrations, her joy – and how imagination helps to make their world feel safe again. A very original and wonderful way for children to see, name, and navigate their emotions!” —Sarah Nünning, Editor, Oetinger, Germany