The Big Book of Pick and Draw Activities by Rich Davis
The Big Book of Pick and Draw Activities compiled and illustrated by Rich Davis, (The Jolly Crocodile, $13.00, Ages 4 and up), is reviewed today by Cathy Ballou Mealey.
Rich Davis, a children’s book artist and illustrator, has devised a simple drawing game that is a clever, engaging way to unlock kids’ innate creativity. Using a deck of Pick and Draw cards ($10), pencils and paper, kids can compile unique characters with exaggerated and unusual features. These characters can provide the springboard for storytelling, writing, art and drama activities both in and out of the classroom. Plus, it’s just plain fun to draw and doodle!
I easily found willing young partners to play several rounds of Pick and Draw around the dining room table. To the right is a sample of our creations, and some of the crazy descriptive character names that they inspire.
The Big Book of Pick and Draw Activities companion book features fifteen chapters written by experts and specialists in a variety of fields. The helpful subject outlines offer good suggestions to incorporate drawing and storytelling activities with Pick and Draw for everything from geography lessons to illustrating English idioms. For readers seeking Christian content, there are chapters specifically geared toward Sunday school, vacation bible school, and other activities for church youth groups.
Davis has illustrated The Big Book of Pick and Draw Activities with over 200 fun, silly and playful cartoons that are a pleasure to pore over for broader inspiration. They punctuate the margins and headings with a lighthearted and delightful tone that will spark kids’ imaginations and tickle their funnybones. In addition, The Big Book of Pick and Draw Activities has just received the National Parenting Center Seal of Approval, awarded to products that help create better informed parents as they tackle the challenges and enjoy the many rewards of parenting.
– Reviewed by Cathy Ballou Mealey
Where Obtained: I received a review copy and cards from the publisher and received no other compensation. The opinions expressed here are my own. Disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”