The Book With No Pictures by B. J. Novak
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20361/G2BW2GAbstract
Novak, B. J. The Book With No Pictures. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers-Penguin Group, 2014. Print.
As the title suggests, this book has no pictures, only words. It all seems very serious, and quite dull. Except there’s a rule about reading books, a rule that the reader might not be aware of.
“Everything the words say, the person reading the book has to say.
No matter what.
That’s the deal.
That’s the rule.”
This means that the person reading the book has to read all the words, even if it’s a song about eating bugs off the rug or proclaiming out loud that your only friend in the whole wide world is a hippo named BOO BOO BUTT. As you read this book your children’s faces will light up with glee as you, the grown-up, bound by the rules of the book, are forced to sing nonsensical songs and spout funny confessions in silly voices page after page.
One of the best features of this book is the use of font. While there are no images, the text decorates the pages with giant colourful words. The read-out-loud thought process of the disgruntled reader is written in small black font, while the songs and nonsensical words are highlighted in colours and exciting lettering. This text differentiation could allow pre-readers to recognize their favourite parts and join in the reading.
A metafictive gem, The Book With No Pictures, is an absolute delight for both reader and child and is a must have book for any children’s collection.
Highly Recommended: 4 out of 4 stars
Reviewer: Shaylyn Buchanan
Shaylyn Buchanan is a teacher with Edmonton Public Schools. She is working to complete her master’s degree in Elementary Education and currently teaches music and kindergarten.
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