Hortense and the Shadow

A haunting, original fairy tale from two dazzling debut picture book talents, in the spirit of Neil Gaiman and Carson Ellis.

Hortense is a kind and brave girl, but she is sad--even angry--that her shadow follows her everywhere she goes. She hates her shadow, and thinks her shadow must hate her too. But one cold, dark night, when bandits surprise her in the woods, Hortense discovers that her shadow is the very thing she needs most.

This stunningly illustrated story stirs the soul with its compelling, subtle exploration of self-esteem, self-identity, and finding inner strength.

Natalia O'Hara is a script editor and Lauren O'Hara is a set designer. As children, Natalia and Lauren shared stories and planned that when they grew up, Natalia would write books and Lauren would draw pictures. Hortense and the Shadow is the sisters' debut collaboration. They live in London, England, and invite you to visit them at nataliaandlauren.com.