The Group

The Group is a poignant new children’s book by award-winning Norwegian author and illustrator Kari Stai. This standalone sequel to her 2021 novel So-so Happy (original title: Passe happy) contains ten illustrated stories that delicately explore the universal theme of belonging through the eyes of its 10-year-old protagonist, Juri.

Juri is a quiet and introspective boy who grapples with understanding his place in various social groups. Through ten interconnected stories, we explore his relationship with friend groups, family, the global population, and different age-based social circles. The book masterfully addresses contemporary issues such as loneliness, identity formation, and friendship in a way that resonates with young readers.

Stai crafts a nuanced exploration of social dynamics, using the metaphor of flocks – from birds flying in formation to school soccer teams – to examine conformity and individuality. The central question posed is profound yet accessible: What does it mean to be yourself when everyone else seems to follow the crowd?