The Danish children’s book “The Fantastic Bus” (Den Fantastiske Bus), authored by Jakob Martin Strid, has quickly become a bestseller in Norway, even before its official release next week. The oversized book, weighing 2.5 kilograms and spanning over 200 pages, originally captivated readers in Denmark when it first appeared in 2023, swiftly selling out both online and in physical bookstores.
A unique and oversized reading experience
“The Fantastic Bus” has gained particular attention for its remarkable size, deliberately chosen to showcase Strid’s intricate and vibrant illustrations fully. Due to its extraordinary dimensions, the book must be hand-stitched, adding to its unique appeal.
The narrative revolves around Taku and his friends, who construct “The Incredible Bus” (Den Utrolige Bus) boasting ten wheels, four engines, and an impressive 18,500 horsepower. Their journey spans 100,000 kilometers to the mythical land of Balanka, driven by their mission to save little Timo.
Shared traditions fuel Norwegian enthusiasm
Karen Bender, Commercial Director at Gyldendal Publishing House, the Danish publisher responsible for “The Fantastic Bus“, explains that the enthusiastic Norwegian reception might be due to shared cultural traditions between the two countries:
“Norway and Denmark share many similar traditions when it comes to children and children’s literature. We allow our children to enjoy humorous and sometimes challenging stories, exploring what can and can’t be said,” explains Bender.
Jakob Martin Strid’s already well-established popularity in Norway also significantly contributed to the book’s rapid sell-out.
Praised as an artistic masterpiece
Nina Christensen, Professor of Children’s Literature at Aarhus University, considers “The Fantastic Bus” a potential landmark in Danish literary history. Christensen particularly praises Strid’s artwork:
“It’s an artistic tour de force demonstrating the grandeur achievable with just pen and ink,” she emphasizes.
Christensen further points out the book’s international appeal, noting that its universal themes resonate with readers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Unexpected international success
The book’s Norwegian success mirrors its surprising international performance, notably in China. After its launch on TikTok, “The Fantastic Bus” sold over 5,000 copies within just half an hour.
Author Jakob Martin Strid has expressed delight at the global appeal of his work:
“I aimed to create a universal story that resonates with children and adults worldwide. It’s genuinely gratifying to see the book doing so well internationally, especially in markets as diverse as China and Norway.”
Last year, Jakob Martin Strid received the prestigious Nordic Council Children and Young People’s Literature Prize, further highlighting the critical acclaim and cultural significance of “The Fantastic Bus.”
