Eija Sumner writes picture books for children and novels for older kids and teens. She sometimes writes poetry. Sometimes she draws and makes art. She is always reading. Eija sounds like, “A-ya,” with a long a for that initial vowel.
“This book is utterly original, delightfully dark, and as twisted as a branch of undersea coral.”
– Booklist
“A must for mermaid fans, sweet or sassy, and a great bedtime read.”
– Kirkus Reviews
“It’s a story for the bedtime-avoidant whose curmudgeonly antihero truly shines.”
– Publishers Weekly
“This aquatic agent of chaos is a contrarian delight, the oceanic proxy of the kid who not only refuses compliance but does so with vicious glee.”
– Starred review and featured Big Picture title for the March edition of The Bulletin for the Center of Children’s Books
The Good Little Mermaid’s Guide to Bedtime, illustrated by Nici Gregory, published on March 5, 2024, it is Eija Sumner’s second picture book. Crocodile Hungry, illustrated by John Martz, is Eija’s debut picture book, published by Tundra Books.
One of CCBC’s Best Books for Kids & Teens (Fall 2022), Starred Selection
“With its tongue-in-cheek humour, short action statements, and bright illustrations, this book is sure to appeal to children of all ages. . . a quick but satisfying read with a conclusion that most Canadians will appreciate.”
– CM:Canadian Review of Materials
“A surprisingly endearing character, with a wry text and expressive pictures that appeal to both children and adults.”
– Imaginary Elevators
“Giggles guaranteed in this hilarious easy reader; a nice piece of overturned expectations, sure to delight.”
– School Library Journal