Review: It's a Book

Summary: Playful and lighthearted with a subversive twist that is signature Lane Smith, IT’S A BOOK is a delightful manifesto on behalf of print in the digital age. This satisfying, perfectly executed picture book has something to say to readers of all stripes and all ages. -- Roaring Brook Press

I know you're not used to seeing book reviews for picture books in the middle of the week, but I just couldn't wait for Saturday's Kid Konnection!

I first heard about IT'S A BOOK by Lane Smith from my friend Sam at Aaron's Books. When she told me the premise behind this story, I thought it was sheer genius. One very frustrated animal (an ape) is trying to explain to another oblivious animal (a donkey) that he is reading a book --not any type of digital book, it's a book. And, I have to say that I just love the overall message about the wonder of a print book.

I'm sure that I would have loved this book anyway because it is just adorable, but I think it holds an especially important place in my heart because I am such a huge fan of books. And by books, I mean real live books that have that book "feel" and that book "smell"! Not that there's anything wrong with e-books and e-readers, but you have to admit that there is nothing like cracking open a new book!

The text in this book is extremely funny, but so are the illustrations. I found myself loving the adorable characters and especially the snarky little mouse at the end. I don't want to give away the ending, but I admit that I found the last page to be absolutely perfect! It's one of those jokes that kids might not get, but parents definitely will. And, I just love when reading a picture book is as fun for me as it is for my kids!

Not only do I love this book, but I also love the book trailer. It will give you a clear idea of the artwork and text in the book, and it pretty much sums up everything I love about this book. The video makes me giggle each and every time I watch it!



Lane Smith is a New York Times best-selling author and illustrator, and I'm sure that you will recognize at least one of his terrific books. Our personal favorite (after IT'S A BOOK) is MADAM PRESIDENT -- you can read my review here.)

IT'S A BOOK has to be one of my all-time favorite picture books. As far as I'm concerned, it's a must-have for every child's library!

Thanks to Zeitghost Media for providing a copy of this adorable book!