The Ear: The story of Van Gogh's missing ear

A surreal story inspired by Vincent van Gogh’s ear, by the award-winning children’s book creator, Piret Raud.

When the artist Vincent van Gogh cuts off his ear, the ear is suddenly left alone and headless. What will become of her? Where should she go? What should she do? Acutely aware of how small and insignificant she is in the big, wide world, the ear experiences something of an identity crisis. She simply doesn’t know who she is anymore. But thanks to a downcast frog with a heavy heart who simply needs listening to, she realizes what she can offer to the world: a sympathetic ear. Through helping her friends, she discovers a fresh perspective on life.

Piret Raud is Estonia’s leading children’s book creator, and has twice been nominated for the Hans Christian Andersen Award, in 2020 and 2022. Her hand-drawn artwork is breathtaking for its exquisite detail, remarkably vibrant colours and bold compositions. This bedtime story will amuse, beguile and teach empathy in equal measure.

Review

'Raud's elegant picture book is a strikingly stylish allegory about how by being a kind-hearted listener you can help other people and make friends' - Sunday Times

'A beautiful book in all of its simplicity, and the illustrations are truly little pieces of art. Very inspiring!' - Babyccino

'Wonderful … intricate and beautiful illustrations accompany this funny and at times bizarre story book' - Angels and Urchins

'An unusual book, perfect for a child and adult to share' - Parents in Touch

About the Author

Piret Raud is Estonia's leading children's book creator, and has been nominated for the Hans Christian Andersen Award twice, in 2020 and 2022.