The Grizzled Grist Does Not Exist

An exuberant read-aloud story about a school trip outdoors with rhyming wordplay and madcap energy, starring the quiet observant Liam. From the award-winning creators of That’s Not a Hippopotamus.

It’s the class trip to Dismal Hills wilderness. The children aren’t worried about the legendary Grizzled Grist who lives here; they’re excited to show off their outdoor skills— foraging, climbing, trapping, and hiking. No one’s impressed with quiet and observant Liam’s skill of hiding. But it turns out a hider can see what others think does not exist.

A hider moves with soundless ease and treads as softly as the breeze.
At times, a hider barely breathes—but what is this the hider sees?

Liam spots—and careful readers will too—signs of the Grist on every spread.

When the children and their frazzled teacher walk confidently into disaster, observant Liam saves the day—a triumph for the quiet child no one notices.

This clever rhyming story for children aged 2 to 7 years features humour and call-and-refrain wordplay that will entertain toddlers, preschoolers, and early readers. Children delight in spotting the elusive Grizzled Grist and identify with sweet Liam, the quiet but observant boy who no one listens to. Sarah Davis’s charming and lively illustrations tell a different story about where Liam and the Grist are hiding on every page. Perfect for reading together again and again as a family, in the school classroom or independently, this picture book features a cast of diverse characters and funny and curious children.

This book is for any child who enjoys a boisterous read-aloud with spot-the-Grist on every page. It’s also excellent for schools and groups—equally enjoyed by frazzled teachers.

White Ravens Award 2023.

Funky Kids Radio Global Picture Book of the Year Award 2022 winner.