Dick Bruna

by Joke Linders, Koosje Kierman

Dick Bruna (1927) has become well known as a graphic designer due to his creation of Nijntje, who has conquered the world outside the Netherlands under the name of Miffy. It is much less widely known that he has many other artistic qualities as well. This book shows the many different facets of Dick Bruna's work as an artist, an illustrator and a designer. Not only Dick Bruna's qualities as an author of children's books are discussed, but also his skills as a writer in other fields. Attention is also focused on the development of other media in which he has worked, such as animations and merchandising. The book includes a contribution by the famous Dutch text writer Ivo de Wijs about the making of the successful Nijntje musicals. Other contributions discuss the influence of others on Dick Bruna's work and the man himself, in the light of biographical details. Of course, his qualities as a graphic designer for the publishing house Uitgeverij Bruna and later for his own studio are also described. F

Genres: Nonfiction

552 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Julie]

I was probably four when I received my first “Miffy”book. Written by Dick Bruna, Miffy is a character that many of us around the world love. I did not know much about Dick Bruna until I picked up this biography. After reading the book I am so glad I bought the book and took the time to read it. Mr Bruna was an interesting and creatively unique man. I learned so much about him and am quite impressed. The biography, “Dick Bruna” is created to look, feel, and read like one of his books. It is small, but quite thick, and full of illustrations and interesting information presented in small bits, just like one of his books. Reading this book was delightful. If you like books about illustrators, kids’ books, or Dutch culture you will enjoy this book. I recommend it.

[Marie-pierre Stien]

I fell in love with Bruna's work when I first saw several of his books on display at a bookstore in France. I was 12 at the time, too old for the books but I insisted my mother buy me one. I was in awe of the simplicity and beauty of his design.
Not only does this book chronicle Bruna's journey, it also gives insight into some of the techniques that he used.
Marvelous.