Saturday, June 27, 2009

The Night the Scary Beasties Popped Out of My Head

The Night the Scary Beasties Popped out of My Head
written and illustrated by Daniel and David Kamish

http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0679890394.01._SY190_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

I would absolutely love to start this blog off with some thoughts about my favorite children's book. Unfortunately, I didn't discover this book until about last year, so I never got to experience it as a child. However, at the children's museum, I've been pushing this book at random kids, making sure it's displayed in prominent places, offering to read it to them, etc. I think some of them really love it, but some of the older kids have been slightly indifferent. I still absolutely adore it. The story has the coolest illustrations ever. From what I've read, and I could be wrong, but I've heard that in this father-son duo, the child did the illustrations, but some of the more complicated backgrounds (e.g. one that looks like Van Gogh's Starry Night) were done by the father. They are astoundingly complex images, and grab the attention of both children and adults alike. The other thing is the subject matter itself, vanquishing nightmares. But it's done so atypically, telling the child that they can go out there and, well, basically imagine their nightmares away. You've got to love it, and I do personally know many children on whom this strategy would work, without a doubt. Just a fantastic read.

Rating: 5/5

Welcome!

What people sometimes fail to realize is that children's books can be just as amazing as any other books. So this is a blog dedicated to picture books, young readers, and easy chapter books. I do hope you enjoy reading my thoughts, and I look forward to hearing yours!