As I mentioned at the beginning of the week, I’m taking on the task of reading 1000 picture books in an attempt to crack the code and uncover the ancient secrets of this minimalist art form. As a result, I’ve read 70 picture books this week. Have I unveiled any secrets yet? I could tell you, but then you’d have to be disappeared.

I will reveal a few of my favorites so far, though. But, lets just keep it between you and me. Okay?

Good Boy, Fergus! by David Shannon
This active, hilarious book perfectly displays David Shannon’s ability to capture human and animal nature at its most mischievous.

The Toy Boat by written Randall DeSeve, illustrated by Loren Long
A wonderful, gentle book with beautiful illustrations. The adventure of this beloved toy boat artfully depicts a child’s constant yearning for freedom and excitement, while still craving love and security.

Prancing, Dancing Lily written by Marsha Diane Arnold, illustrated by John Manders
A quick-stepping cow travels the world searching for her perfect dance. The non-rhyming text paired with rhyming letters sent back home give this hilarious book a feeling of both repetition and variety.

Sector 7 by David Wiesner
Fantastic artwork paired with an imaginative story. David Wiesner does it again!

Special mention:

No Ordinary Olive written by Roberta Baker and illustrated by Debbie Tilley

Though this wasn’t one of my favorites, it was a perfect example of the concept of ‘leaving room for pictures.’ Roberta Baker writes on page 6, “Olive grew from a baby to a child.” Debbie Tilley brilliantly pairs that simple line of text with a montage of Olive getting into wonderful mischief through the years. This spread is a beautiful example of the alchemy that can happen between the author and the illustrator. You can see half the spread I’m talking about using the Amazon online reader at this page. Search for the word ‘grew.’ (You have to sign in.)

You can check out all the books I’ve read this week here. It’s been a lot of fun. But you don’t have to take my word for it!

Posted in Books, Books of the Week, I heart this book, Picture books, The Great Picture Book Read, Writing

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