Tiny Worlds, Big Adventures: Discovering Borrowers with Emilia Dziubak’s Illustrations
There’s something timeless and utterly charming about Mary Norton’s classic Borrowers series - a miniature family living hidden under our floorboards, bravely navigating a world built for giants.
When I discovered that Polish publisher Dwie Siostry had released the entire series under the transltion of Pożyczalscy, which is beautifully illustrated by Emilia Dziubak, I knew I had to own it. Dziubak is one of my favorite illustrators: her work feels both nostalgic and fresh, rich in detail yet full of warmth.
Reading these new editions felt like rediscovering the Borrowers all over again with every blade of grass, teacup, and dark corner painted in delicate, almost magical detail. Here’s what makes each volume special:
Kłopoty rodu Pożyczalskich (The Borrowers #1)
Mary Norton, illustrated by Emilia Dziubak
The opening of the series gently pulls us into Arrietty, Pod, and Homily’s hidden world. Dziubak’s illustrations turn everyday household spaces into grand, slightly mysterious landscapes. There’s a comforting warmth here too - the sense of family, of quiet bravery, and of seeing ordinary objects from a new, miniature perspective.
Pożyczalscy idą w świat (The Borrowers #2)
When the Borrowers are forced to leave their safe home, the world beyond feels vast and uncertain. Emilia Dziubak’s art beautifully captures that mix of fear and wonder: towering grass stalks become forests, a puddle becomes a lake. It’s a journey filled with resilience, and the illustrations make us feel every small step as an epic adventure.
Pożyczalscy na wyspie (The Borrowers #3)
Stranded on an island, the Borrowers find new dangers and unexpected delights. Dziubak’s palette feels lighter here, almost sunlit, perfectly matching the wilder, more open setting. The island’s nature is shown with a lushness that makes each flower and leaf feel alive - a lovely visual contrast to earlier volumes.
Pożyczalscy w przestworzach (The Borrowers #4)
In this volume, the Borrowers quite literally take to the skies. The illustrations soar too: airy compositions, swirling lines, and soft colors give us a sense of floating alongside the tiny heroes. It’s playful and whimsical, but still grounded in the series’ gentle heart.
Pożyczalscy pomszczeni (The Borrowers #5)
The final volume brings tension, danger, and ultimately hope. Dziubak’s art leans into richer, deeper colors, capturing the higher stakes and darker moments. But the resilience of the Borrowers - and the tenderness between them - shines through. It’s a satisfying, beautifully illustrated end to a timeless adventure.
Why this edition stole my heart
Mary Norton’s classic stories have always been magical but seeing them through Emilia Dziubak’s eyes makes them feel new. Her style perfectly blends the nostalgic and the modern, the delicate and the bold.
If you’re looking for a beautiful, thoughtfully illustrated edition of The Borrowers, I can wholeheartedly recommend the Pożyczalscy series by Dwie Siostry.
