Not Another Nursery Rhyme Book, You Say?

Okay, I have to admit that when I was asked if I wanted to review a book of nursery rhymes, I wasn’t all that excited about it. But then when I discovered the rhymes are presented in comic book form, illustrated by 50 famous cartoonists, I perked up a bit.

The quality of Nursery Rhyme Comics ($18.99 First Second Books, Ages 3 and up) is so high, it’s sort of like a child’s version of a coffee table book, if you can imagine that. From the cover to the paper, the printing to the illustrations, this is a beautiful book. And it’s so entertaining too. Somehow reading traditional nursery rhymes while looking at cool comic illustrations, takes what were once classic rhymes to a whole new level of chic. In the front of the book is a wonderful intro by Leonard S. Marcus, historian and children’s book author. In the back of the book is a list of all the cartoonists, with short bios, so you know who is responsible for each comic.

Now that I’ve read the book, I must also admit that I love it so much, I am going to keep it for myself. It’s sitting right on top of the coffee table in the living room, for my guests to enjoy. I just hope no one walks away with it.

This book was reviewed by Debbie Glade.