In ‘Suzy Doozy in the Deep End’, Suzy and Dog explore the deep end of the swimming pool for the first time. She unleashes total chaos and is sent straight back to the wading pool. But that’s discounting Suzy’s resourcefulness.

Suzie Doozie series

Together with illustrator Benjamin Leroy, Jaap devised and made four books about Suzy Doozy. Why is there not yet a book about a smelly finger? Or a pair of scissors hungry to cut. And why are there so many rules in a swimming pool?

First of all, there was her name: Suzy Doozy. Jaap and Benjamin immediately knew who this girl was. Suzy always thinks up fantastic games her dog friend has to participate in. She has a fantasy that flows seamlessly into everyday life. Suzy never wants to give kisses, except with a mouth full of waffle crumbs. She’s one of those kids that know a syrup waffle fits perfectly into a CD player.

As with all their books, illustrator and writer worked together intensively, so that text and drawing constantly inspire each other, making it impossible to say who thought up what, because it’s a combined effort. Meanwhile Suzy has many fans and there are even real Suzy Doozy festivals.