Sunday, July 8, 2012

Book Review: The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce


Illustrated by: Joe Bluhm
Published by: Simon & Schuster Kids
Released on: June 19th, 2012
Source: book from publisher to review
5 stars: A Must Have!

The book that inspired the Academy Awardwinning short film, from New York Times bestselling author and beloved visionary William Joyce. 

Morris Lessmore loved words.He loved stories.
He loved books.
But every story has its upsets.
Everything in Morris Lessmore’s life, including his own story, is scattered to the winds.     But the power of story will save the day.     

Stunningly brought to life by William Joyce, one of the preeminent creators in children’s literature, The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is a modern masterpiece, showing that in today’s world of traditional books, eBooks, and apps, it’s story that we truly celebrate—and this story, no matter how you tell it, begs to be read again and again -quoted from Goodreads

This picture book deserves the same praise I have only said one other time this year, which is, if there's only 1 picture book you're able to pick up this year THIS IS THE ONE! William Joyce is one of my favorite children's storytellers and illustrators. His talent for creating imaginative worlds, and his brilliant story telling goes beyond introducing children to the limitless possibilities of imagination. As an adult he reminds me of that excitement I first felt when I was a child and was introduced to the amazing world of reading, and with it, the countless places and worlds each book took me to. The story of Mr. Morris Lessmore's story is no different.

I love that this book is about books. Books have this ability to take us to out of our element for awhile, and give us the escape we need from the hustle and bustle, the pain, the frustrations, and anything else life throws at us, both good and bad. Books are like friends. They lend us support, give us answers and sometimes remind us of who we are and what we need to do. In Mr. Morris Lessmore's case, that is exactly what happened to him. One book was all it took to help Morris who's life had unexpectedly turned upside down and had him down on his luck. The simple gift of one book gave Mr. Morris Lessmore hope and a world of endless possibilities, when it introduced him to an imaginable world of many books. He found a new meaning, was given hope, and the courage to continue doing what he did before.

Mr. Morris Lessmore's story is incredible, as is this book that tells his story. Like all stories, every one has an ending. But Mr. Morris Lessmore's isn't a sad ending, in fact it's a new beginning of sorts. Here's why, even though his story does end, Mr. Lessmore's book creates endless possibilities for another. And so, like the women who gifted him his book, Mr. Morris Lessmore's legacy continues on as it's passed on from one person to the next. With each passing it gives the new reader unimaginable hope, happiness and that little bit of courage to go do something amazing. This is one book I HIGHLY recommend picking up! It doesn't matter if you're young or old, you'll enjoy this story all the same.

Be sure to visit HERE to find out more about the book and the story behind the Academy Award winning short film!

I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~