A Global Chain Reaction Begins in When Tad Kicked Vlad
A new children’s book, When Tad Kicked Vlad, has arrived with a playful twist on global connections. The story began when author Julian Gough was speaking to a group of children, who sparked the idea for a chain reaction of kicks travelling worldwide. Illustrator Ross Collins then brought the energetic tale to life with vibrant, detailed artwork. The book starts on Tad’s birthday, when he kicks his friend Vlad. That single kick sets off an unexpected sequence, with the force passing from person to person across the globe. Unlike most picture books, this one runs twice as long, giving Collins space to craft intricate illustrations.
Gough has compared the artwork to Hergé’s The Adventures of Tintin, praising its clarity and wit. Collins used coloured pens for the line work to keep each scene sharp and engaging. One standout image shows an entire city drawn from above, tracing the kick’s path through streets and buildings.
For Collins, the project was both demanding and fulfilling. He worked closely with Gough to capture the story’s cheeky humour, turning a simple premise into a visually rich adventure. The book’s extra length allowed for more elaborate drawings, setting it apart from typical picture books. Collins’ illustrations and Gough’s playful storytelling combine to create a dynamic read. When Tad Kicked Vlad is now available, offering a lively take on how one small action can ripple across the world.
