On the one hand, I am tempted to say NOTHING. Nothing beats buying books. Especially picture books (in my case). But... I am actually buying something that might possibly be just a schmoot better. Ready? Picture book art! And boy am I excited!
My husband and I decided we want to start collecting art from picture books. And we knew exactly where we wanted our first piece to come from-- the brilliant book, That Rabbit Belongs to Emily Brown, by Cressida Cowell and Neal Layton.
Emily Brown has so much fun going on wild adventures with her rabbit, Stanley, that the Queen becomes envious and decides she wants that Bunnywunny no matter what the cost. She sends in her Chief Footman to offer Emily a bribe, which Emily of course declines. Escalate- repeat. Escalate-repeat. Escalate-repeat. At which point, the Queen sends her Special Commandos in to kidnap him. Emily confronts the Queen and demands that she give Stanley back, but she does explain how the Queen can end up with beloved "Stanley" of her own.
This story is so tightly structured that I would use it if I ever taught a picture book writing class. But more than that, it is incredibly charming for both kids and adults. The art is a spectacular combination of collage, pen and ink, and watercolor. We all love it at our house! (Though it would definitely be funnier if I could read it with a British accent)
9 comments:
I'll buy this book at your recommendation. Come on over and I'll read it in my best Brit impression!
Sounds like a fun book. My son does good British voices. I'll have him read it out loud :)
This one looks cute. I like how the rabbit appears to be happy being hugged on the cover. Or am I projecting? Cheerio!
This looks like a book my kids would love. Also, I've heard GREAT things about your book, and can't wait to get my hands on it!
Love this book! And I definately plan on giving everyone boosk for the holidays!
Shelli
http://faeriality.blogspot.com/
Sounds like something the cast of Fawlty Towers would be great for... ;-)
I love that you're collecting art from picture books! I'm jealous. I have a fantasy about owning a large scale print of Max's "Wild Rumpus" from WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE.
Keep us posted on your collecting!
I love that you're collecting art from picture books! I'm jealous. I have a fantasy about owning a large scale print of Max's "Wild Rumpus" from WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE.
Keep us posted on your collecting!
Sounds like a very cute book, Corey.
If I were to pick a favorite book based on the art alone, I think it would have to be My Friend Rabbit by Eric Rohman.
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