Olga and the Smelly Thing from Nowhere

Ages 8 to 12, Grades 3 to 7

Olga can’t stand being called cute all the time—by her family, her friends, and even random strangers on the street—so her group of odd but lovable characters, each with their own special quirks, helps her discover her own hidden talents and qualities.

Olga finds a creature in her garbage can one day, and all it says is “MEH!” It won’t eat, it won’t sleep, it snores, it stinks, and Olga adores it! And she’s determined to learn everything about it. She declares it an Olgamus, names it Meh, and studies it like mad. After a few days, she learns all about the scientific method, Jane Goodall, some of her favorite odd creatures, the ins and outs of friendship, and every human’s use for living in a community—and also that Meh loves olives.Perfect for fans of Dear Dumb Diary and My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish, and great preparation for El Deafo, Roller Girl, and Smile, the humor and two-color line art in Olga and the Smelly Thing from Nowhere are both irreverent and accessible.

About the Author

Elise Gravel is an award-winning author/illustrator from Quebec. She is the winner of the Governor General’s Award for French language children’s illustration and is well known in Quebec for her original, wacky picture books. She has published a number of books with US publisher Blue Apple as well as a graphic novel for Roaring Brook Press. Having completed her studies in graphic design, Elise found herself quickly swept up into the glamorous world of illustration. Her old design habits drive her to work a little text here and there into her drawings, and she loves to handle the design of her assignments from start to finish. She is inspired by social causes and likes projects that can handle a good dose of eccentricity.