We have just entered 2025, and it’s time for a review: “Meeting the Okapi” is the book we sold the most in 2024.
For the second consecutive year, this book ranks at the top of our sales, followed by “Meeting the Bonobo”.
Several reasons explain this success. The first is that, as the co-author, I had the opportunity to travel to various places in the United States to promote these books. I believe this is why the English versions have sold the most.
Why the okapi? I think this animal, native to the Democratic Republic of Congo, fascinates people. Very few have ever heard of this zebra-giraffe hybrid at our different markets and festivals.
Many asked: “Are you sure this is a real animal? Is it a cloned animal? Does it really exist?”
After I confirmed it was real, some would flip through the book and decide to buy it. I’d say 8 out of 10 customers wanted to learn more. The fact that the book presents facts about the okapi was very helpful to the buyers. They told me it felt like a “mini documentary.”
Buyers were also drawn to the map. They said it helped them better understand the okapi’s natural habitat.
Another reason for this success is the price. The book is sold for $9.99 at festivals. Parents found this price to be very affordable.
This hardcover book, designed for very young children, I would say between 2 and 5 years old, even attracts older kids. Those who are 8, 9, or even 10 years old also enjoy it. This makes the book an ideal gift for children.
Since its publication in 2021, this book has continued to capture the hearts of book lovers. Will it maintain its position as our best-seller in 2025? Only time will tell.
English 
French