The Book with No Pictures
Title: The Book with No Pictures Author: B.J. Novak Illustrator: B.J. Novak Publisher: Dial Books for Young Readers Year of Publication: 2014 Genre: Picture Book Horn Book or Kirkus Reviews Rating: Horn Book Review 2, Kirkus Starred Review Summary: Most people would say every book for young children has to have illustrations. Most people would be wrong. B.J. Novak uses one rule to make adults hilariously read this book to kids. Summary of Professional Reviews: The listeners of The Book with No Pictures will be tickled as the reader follows directions and says ridiculous things. The text manages to convey the changes in tone required by the reader, along with the theatrics needed to ensure an amusing journey together. |
Review by Crystal Ball: I’ve seen wordless picture books before but I have never seen a pictureless picture book. B.J. Novak begins with simple black writing on a white page. Then, he creatively uses color, font, and humor to draw children into the experience of reading. He gives the reader one rule. “Everything the words say, the person reading the book has to say. No matter what.” Odd combinations of words, along with songs, sound effects, and a little flattery, make this unique book come alive. Even the most reserved reader will find themselves declaring they are a robot monkey. That’s right, a robot monkey. |
This book would be useful when teaching…
The Book with No Pictures would be a wonderful icebreaker book on the first day of school. By reading this book with students the teacher would start off the year showing the students a fantastic sample of creativity in writing. There would also be many silly sounds sure to catch the students’ attention.
The Book with No Pictures would be a wonderful icebreaker book on the first day of school. By reading this book with students the teacher would start off the year showing the students a fantastic sample of creativity in writing. There would also be many silly sounds sure to catch the students’ attention.