The Fate of Fausto

By Oliver Jeffers

A man's quest for ownership leads him to the sea. What will he find?

4.2/5 Goodreads · 2,530 ratings

96 pages· 533 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

$24.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Fausto believes he owns everything, from flowers to mountains. Yet, his insatiable desire drives him to the sea, seeking more. As he claims dominion over all, what will the ocean reveal about his quest? This modern fable explores the consequences of unchecked ambition and the true nature of possession.

From the publisher

A TIME Best Children’s Book of 2019!A Chicago Public Library 2019 Best of the Best Book!*This minimalistic masterpiece is a must-read for all ages. –School Library Journal (starred review!)A quirky, cautionary tale from beloved New York Times bestselling picture book creator Oliver Jeffers! There was once a man who believed he owned everything and set out to survey what was his. You are mine, Fausto said to the flower, the sheep, and the mountain, and they all bowed before him. But they were not enough for Fausto, so he conquered a boat and set out to sea . . . Combining bold art and powerful prose, and working in traditional lithographic printmaking techniques for the first time, world-renowned talent Oliver Jeffers has created a poignant modern-day fable to touch the hearts of adults and children alike. Praise for The Fate of Fausto Jeffers paints Fausto and the objects of his desire with the nonchalant finesse he is known for and in the richly saturated colors he generally favors… Jeffers delivers swift justice in a few concluding words that make for an ending that satisfies for being both fair-minded and irrevocable.–New York Times Book Review Boldly conceived and gracefully executed.–Publishers Weekly A parable sure to spark lively discussions. –Booklist A cautionary fable on the banality of belligerence. –Kirkus Reviews

At a glance