Most of you with children will be aware of a rather famous book called Matilda, by the great Roald Dahl.
But you probably won’t be quite so familiar with a slightly less famous book called Matilda Mouse, by the not-so-great Simon Griffin. Probably because there are only 55 copies in existence. Here they are:
About two years ago I wrote the story about my own daughter (Matilda) who seemed to have hiccups every day for the first year of her life. She’s stopped now, fortunately for us. At that time the incredibly gifted illustrator Deanna Halsall (now on the books at Toy) was still in university and, after reading the book, kindly agreed to do a few illustrations for me. Back then ‘a few’ meant five or six. A couple of years later ‘a few’ had swelled to 12 spreads, endpapers and a cover. (Sorry Dee.)
Earlier this week they finally arrived on my desk after a frustratingly long time that included two reprints. (Fortunately only one was my fault.) But it was well worth the wait, as Dee’s illustrations really bring the whole thing to life – if anyone out there is looking for an illustrator, I can’t recommend her highly enough. Actually I probably can, but it would just go on for a bit too long and become a bit boring and repetitive after a while. And I’d start using loads of exclamation marks, which I really don’t like doing. You can see more of her work and contact her through TOY.
On top of that another good friend, Mr Jon Rand – a highly talented gentleman from the world of voiceovers – recorded thing whole thing onto a CD for me, complete with music, sound effects and a Scottish giraffe. I don’t know if they have giraffes in Scotland, apart from in zoos, but they should definitely think about introducing them into the wild up there. You should be able to hear it by clicking below.
If you’re interested in working with Jon – and he’s the ultimate professional – his website is here.
At the moment we’ve only printed fifty five (it’s all I could afford), but I’m hoping that someone out there might know someone who knows someone who knows someone who might be interested in helping print some more. If you do, please drop me an email at s (dot) griffin (at) lovecreative (dot) com. Unfortunately I haven’t got too many spare copies to give out, but I’m sure we can arrange something.
Finally, a massive thanks to everyone who worked on it to help turn my vanity project into something that hopefully Matilda will be able to read to her own children and grandchildren long after I’m forgotten. Thanks Dee, Jon, Shelley, Johnny Whitesnake, Mr Hatton and Mr Beardsell at Music, TEAM and Media Heaven.
Oh, and thank you Matilda, who makes every day better than the last.
Ta da! About time this came out. Well done Herr Griffin. I’ve seen Matilda Mouse and can tell you all it’s absolutely ace. Definately the best of Simon’s vanity projects by a long-shot. His first five piano concerti may have been a disaster and the world simply isn’t ready for his 35hour experimental rock-opera about the history of Wedgewood pottery. But luckily for us, his kid’s books are ruddy fantastic. Enjoy.
Thank you Mr Goddard. Personally I thought the rock opera was a winner, but each to their own.
Hey, maybe I’m wrong about the opera. All I’m saying is I haven’t seen a return on the money I lent you for the canal barge made of lasers in Act 17 yet. But I’m behind you all the way, man. 110%!
oh boy, i’m way behind on this one, but yay!!! (multiple exclamation marks, sorry). glad to see they’ve arrived, they look fantastic and i’m sure they smell awesome too. well done.
Thanks Lauren. Just need to get book number 3 into production. Oh, and I’ll get around to responding to your meme thing too. Better late than never.
The book looks great. How do I buy a copy?
I can tell that this is not the first time at all that you write about the topic. Why have you chosen it again?
We also have a daughter (Mathilda) who we call Mouse. Fluke? Who knows! Would love to buy a signed copy! Can you let me know how?
Thanks
Edward