This book is original in its approach to teaching sign language because, unlike other books, it does not just rely on photographs and descriptions of the signs.  The signs used in this book have been specifically selected to be relevant to the needs of both carers and children and they are then woven into a series of stories. Olli, the monkey, communicates with those around him by using sign language rather than just speech.  Olli is an easily recognisable character with whom children can readily identify.

Gary Slack, the  author, is a fully qualified communication support worker for deaf people and has extensive experience of supporting both deaf and deaf-blind people in many different situations. 

He has developed and delivered Deaf Awareness and Sign Language workshops to people of all ages including popular classes for mothers and babies.  In 2005 he was commissioned by Lincolnshire County Council, Early Years and Childcare Services, to deliver training in non-verbal communication to the child-minders and care workers of Lincolnshire.

Garry lives in Stamford in Lincolnshire with his partner and four sausage dogs.