Can it text?
Blog?
Scroll?
Wi-fi?
Tweet?
No….it’s a book.
I wanted this to be the first book I officially reviewed for My Little Bookcase, as it symbolises the philosophy of our website.
From the moment I heard of this book I knew I had to read it, and it didn’t disappoint. I love it. It is sharp and witty and sends a clear message.
One of the qualities I love most about a good picture book is its ability to entertain its adult readers as well as children. This book certainly offers enjoyment for adults. At times we can feel that books struggle to compete with technology, and then along comes It’s a Book to light-heartedly remind us that a book can never be replaced by technology.
The story is a simple one, made up of three cleverly selected characters. We are observers of a conversation between Monkey and Jackass. Tech-savvy Jackass is trying very hard to understand what exactly a book can do, and Monkey seems to be getting increasingly frustrated with the questions. But it is Mouse who offers the comical punch line. My favourite page is when Jackass tries to shorten the text of a story with SMS language (e.g. lol).
I think the book is aimed at primary school aged children, but the large, vivid and adorable illustrations make it an attractive book for toddlers too. Not to mention the growing trend of toddlers being able to independently operate i-phones. They may in fact actually understand the terminolgy used in the book. The illustrations are also witty and comical and it won’t take long for your children to start giggling along with you.
The message of this book will resonate with any book lover: regardless of the fast pace and clever attributes of technology we will always adore and admire the tactile book. The book humorously highlights everything a book can’t do. Yet at the same time we are reminded of how enchanting a book can be in its simple and ‘old-fashioned’ state.
If you’re a book-lover, you must get your hands on a copy of It’s a Book and add it to your book collection. Pull it out and read it regularly, to remind you and your children that books are a simple joy in life.
Purchase: We purchased our copy from Enchanted by Books, but it is also available for purchase online.
Author: Lane Smith
Illustrator: Lane Smith
Publisher: Walker Books Australia
Publication Date: September 2010
Type/Format: Picture Book/Hardcover
ISBN: 9781921720147
For ages: 5+
RRP: $27.95
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Read another book review of this book at Kids’ Book Review
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