I should have realized that even though Harry Bliss was the illustrator, the fact Steve Martin was involved would make A Wealth of Pigeons: A Cartoon Collection more of an adult book. I guess I assumed that it would be like several other actors, singers, artists who have ventured into “Children’s Land” with a picture book.
Yet, I was not disappointed. Some of the jokes presented are funny, some hilarious and some fall flat. It is up to the reader which is which. The entire book is a fun journey. It is a collection of cartoons (as the title suggests) that Martin and Bliss worked on. It would be a great gift for the adult person who has everything or likes Steve Martin. Also, it could be good for a budding teen artist as it shows some of the creative process as well. Just make sure that the receiver does not have other friends and family who know their love of art, Martin, Bliss or funny books!
To make up the rest of the word count needed, and since the book is fairly self-explanatory (cartoons, Steven Martin Harry Bliss, the occasional pigeon), I will end this review with the feelings the book gave. It felt cozy. It would not be unheard to have a sit down read under your fuzzy blanket and your hot beverage of choice. You could read one or two at a time or read the whole book in one sitting. Sometimes I felt the book was stretching to reach a minimum of cartoons/jokes, sometimes I wish they would do more on that the subject. It is a book that you will either really enjoy or be “eh” about.
I can see this going out of stock at your local independent bookstore, so go grab yours quick!