When is a child's book a great gift for an adult? When that book has fantastic illustrations and a wonderful story of loving friendship. At least, that's what I was thinking when I gave A Snowman Named Just Bob by Mark Kimball Moulton to my wife Jill as a Christmas gift several years ago.
The hardcover edition of this book comes in a protective sleeve, but don't expect to keep it there. Just as our son transitioned into longer books -- around 18 months -- he found A Snowman Named Just Bob and has added it to his daily "reads". For his age, this book has just a tad too much story, but the illustrations keep him interested. That very fact alone should tell you something about how warm and fun this book really is.
From a readability standpoint, the chosen font adds to the warmth of the book but takes away from a first-time reader's ability to easily catch every word. Until most pages are committed to memory (parents out there understand) you might have to really concentrate to get a word here or there. I'm planning to read this book to several classes of young boys and girls at a local elementary school later this month so obviously it doesn't take much away from the book, if anything.
Young or old, A Snowman Named Just Bob will touch your heart and please your eyes. The production value and beauty of the book make it great for us kids of all ages.
Our son Hale says: One time is not enough
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Lang Books; (August 1999)
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This book is a must-read! I love it, Hale loves it and I am quite certain that Miss Addison will love it in due time. "Bob" (as Hale affectionately refers to the book) was the subject of an entry on this website more than a year ago. That alone should prove how much our family enjoys this book! Definitely a good buy, Kev!