Explore the essence of community with The Little WE, a character that goes beyond a children’s book to embody the vital concept of togetherness. In our exclusive interview with Angela Schaaf De Lavado, Senior Rights Manager Merchandising at Carlsen Verlag, we discuss how The Little WE inspires connections and fosters unity in today’s world.
How did the idea for the little WE come about?
The author and illustrator Daniela Kunkel developed the idea during her own work as an educator. She wanted to convey to children, in a way that was easy for them to understand, how important community is. The little green creature is a visual representation of this feeling that we often experience when we feel part of a team or family and helps children understand how to maintain and strengthen relationships.
This simple yet profound concept is certainly one of the reasons why the little WE has become an indispensable part of many German-speaking kindergartens and primary schools.
Many teachers use the books to explain to children the importance of cohesion and how to solve conflicts. It is a wonderful way to teach values such as empathy, respect, and team spirit at an early age.
How many titles are there and has the little WE already been sold abroad?
Carlsen Verlag has now published 10 titles with the little WE, and more are to come. It is one of our most successful series. Translations have been sold to 12 countries.
Is there already merchandise for the little WE?
We are still at a very early stage, but I am really looking forward to the adorable plush figure that will be released next Spring by Heinrich Bauer Spielwaren, who is our exclusive distributor for the plush items in the German-speaking market.
What makes the little WE so popular with children and adults alike?
It is probably the simplicity of the message that makes the little WE so accessible. Children recognize themselves and their own feelings in the stories. The concept that the WE grows when you are friendly and shrinks when you argue is easy to understand.
What do you think is the most important message conveyed by the little WE?
I think the most important message is that together we are stronger, and The Little WE reminds us how valuable our connections with others are.
