Tiny Tree Books is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of Fishing for Condiments, a beautifully crafted children’s picture book that, through deceptively simple storytelling, is deeper than it first appears. Written by debut author Ashley Baxendale and illustrated by the talented Anna Kukleva, this book promises to captivate young readers and parents alike with its touching narrative and stunning artwork.
Fishing for Condiments follows the story of Neget, a young boy who is learning life’s deeper lessons under the guidance of his wise Grandpa. But when Grandpa suddenly vanishes on the ice, Neget must discover what truly matters. The book’s central message – “What use are all your favorite sauces if you don’t have any fish?” – encourages readers to reflect on what’s most important in life. It’s a sentiment that will resonate with children and adults alike.
Fishing for Condiments is available to pre-order online from Amazon, Waterstones, and Bookshop.org or in-store at your local bookshop.
A Meaningful Story for All Ages
Although the story of Fishing for Condiments is simple and easy for younger children to understand, Ashley has layered it with deeper themes that will speak to more mature readers. “The concept was to write a story that could be enjoyed by younger readers at face value, yet had layers of meaning to resonate with parents and more mature readers,” says the author. The hope is that children may begin to appreciate these themes as they grow, sparking valuable conversations between parents and their kids.
The collaborative process between Ashley Baxendale and, illustrator, Anna Kukleva was integral to bringing this book to life. Anna’s illustrations elevate the story, depicting the icy landscapes and tender moments between Neget and his Grandpa with breathtaking beauty. The organic approach to creating the book – with Baxendale and Kukleva working closely on each spread – results in a seamless collaboration between words and illustrations that feels fresh and deeply engaging.
The Creative Team Behind Fishing for Condiments
Ashley Baxendale’s journey to becoming a children’s author started with his passion for storytelling as a primary school teacher. Inspired by the classic children’s stories he shared with his students, Ashley set out to create a picture book that would leave a lasting impression on children and adults alike. With Fishing for Condiments, he’s achieved exactly that – and the result is a debut that feels both heartfelt and timeless.
Illustrator Anna Kukleva, known for her vibrant, retro-inspired style, brings the icy world of Fishing for Condiments to life with her textured, minimalist, artwork. Drawing inspiration from natural landscapes and 60s and 70s art, Kukleva’s illustrations add layers upon layers of visual storytelling to the book’s emotional depth. Anna’s work beautifully complements Ashley’s words, making Fishing for Condiments a truly collaborative picture book project.
A Story to Treasure
Fishing for Condiments is a story about values, family, and understanding what’s truly important in life. With its heartfelt message and beautiful illustrations, this book is sure to become a favourite among families.
As readers dive into the icy waters of Fishing for Condiments, they’ll find that what’s beneath the surface is just as important – if not more so – than what appears at first glance. This debut from Ashley Baxendale and Anna Kukleva is a gem, and we can’t wait to share it with the world.
Fishing for Condiments is published on January 23rd 2025.