Roger without his shell

Roger is different. Completely different from the other snails: he does not produce enough slime and moves far too quickly. What’s more, he cannot stand his shell and would rather get rid of it and live without one. With the support of Jean-Pierre, his snail grandfather and a former ’68 activist, Roger decides to leave his village, his parents who do not understand him, and to break free from his shell.

Along the way, he meets Jean-Pierre’s old friends, who are outsiders too. With the help of these colourful characters, Roger gradually discovers who he really is!

Funny writing filled with wordplay and little winks for parents. A picture book about difference and self-acceptance. The illustrations are packed with details that respond to the text and enrich it, while the bright pop colours celebrate optimism. No, being different is not depressing!

Rights sold to: China

Key selling points:

◊ A humorous picture book celebrating difference.
◊ Charles Dutertre’s mischievous illustrations are a perfect match for Chris Adam-Fazel’s humour.
◊ Plenty of little winks for parents.
◊ Charles Dutertre needs little introduction — a prolific children’s book illustrator!
◊  Special production: straight-cut edges.

Author & Illustrator

Chris Adam-Fazel (author)
Originally from the Bordeaux region, Chris Adam-Fazel works in television. Her passion is writing! She has always wanted to write books for children, combining humour with contemporary themes and, above all, encouraging children’s curiosity and prompting them to ask their parents questions.

Charles Dutertre (illustrator)
Charles Dutertre has illustrated several dozen picture books written by various children’s authors, including Alex Cousseau, Thierry Lenain and Vincent Cuvellier. His books have been published by a number of publishers, including Éditions du Rouergue and Éditions Sarbacane. In 2018, he received the BolognaRagazzi Award in the Fiction category for L’Oiseau blanc, published by L’École des loisirs.