Written by Gabby Dawnay
Illustrated by Ian Morris
Published by Thames and Hudson, August, 2021
Review
What's your favorite way to read with your kiddos? You know T and I like Chips and Chapters (alternating reading and snacking with an early chapter book) and T loves reading graphic novels to himself. What I really treasure, however, is when he reads me picture books. The Library Book is one that he read to me this week. The font and pacing made it a comfortable choice for him, as well as the fact that he'd already read it to himself as soon as it arrived in the mail.The Library Book is a book about books, namely library books and how enjoyable they can be. When a class field trip to the library results in one child (Zach) antagonistic toward literature, a classmate (Ro) tries to help him have a positive experience. She lauds the different genres and topics, undeterred by his negative attitude. Ultimately, Ro hits on something that sparks Zach's interest and he changes his tune.
Ideal for younger readers who are beginning to verbalize reading preferences and cognize their love of literature, The Library Book encourages the notion that there is a book for everyone. What strikes me is that all selections are presented as valid – there is no judgement or hierarchy of books, genres, formats, any of that. If you want a classic or a picture book or a graphic novel. If you want history or sports or magic. The focus is on choosing what's right for you. The Library Book validates young children's tastes and empowers them to make choices about their reading matter.
A note about representation: Ro presents as Black and Zach presents as white.
Note: A review copy was provided for the purpose of an honest review. All thoughts are our own.
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