See, some people might accuse me of desperation at this point, reviewing a 32-page children’s book I’ve read to my son more times than I can consciously count, considering he’s now nearly three, and my husband and I started reading it to him when he was only just a baby himself, long before he had any grasp of what the book was actually about or what the illustrations showed.Those people might not be entirely wrong. I have, however, come to the conclusion that due to my fairly crippling anxiety and depression making it much more difficult to read this year, combined with a heavier than usual workload for parts of it (thanks Covid-19 for the added fun of having to do remote teaching for much of the year, giving me massively more to do without any extra compensation whatsoever) – plus the realisation this evening, as I was reading the book yet again, that it actually fits into one of the last reading challenges I’ve yet to successfully complete this year and consequently, I’d be an idiot not to review it and count it as one of my 104 books to help me (hopefully) complete my double Cannonball by the end of the year. I really don’t want to think about what it’s going to do to my self-esteem if I fail to complete this reading goal, the past two years have been pretty dismal for me, reading-wise, and I really need this win.
So if reviewing a sliver of a children’s book brings me closer to this goal, then so be it. It’s not like it’s going to be a struggle for me to write at least 250 words about it – I’ve probably already covered those in my rather rambling introduction. For those of you who haven’t got children of your own, or children to read to (with discerning parents who buy children’s books written and illustrated by a former webcomic genius), you may be unaware of this little gem.
Full review on my blog.
We’ve had some really great reviews of picture books. One of my favorite reviews is of a book called When Mommy was Mad. I think you’re doing amazing.
Thank you, I really am focusing all my attentions on making it to 104 completed reviews by the deadline. If I could just manage to write SHORT reviews…but no, my writing style refuses to contain itself to short and concise write-ups.
cheers to you for sticking it out, cheers to your little one for having excellent taste, and cheers for Kate Beaton!
Both his father and I are very big on reading, and have been reading to him since he was far too young to understand. Now he actually engages with books, and often insist on “doing it SELF”, which is adorable. I do teach teenage boys, however, so I know it’s not a given that just because he loves books and reading as a toddler, this love will stay with him. I’ll keep trying to influence him, though.
You got this! I believe in you. Also, I always like the children’s book reviews. Helps when I need to buy gifts for new babies.
Thank you! Oh, I have many suggestions for fun books that parents can read again and again without wanting to tear their hair out.
I don’t have children but I have read both of Kate Beaton’s kids’ books, and loved them both. I support you in all your endeavors, Malin.
Oh, my husband and I bought both of Beaton’s children’s books long before we ever knew that Gabriel could be a reality. I have also gifted the books both to new (or expecting) parents, as well as childless friends, just because I love Kate Beaton so much and they’re such wonderful picture books.
Thank you for the support, my friend. This community has kept me going this year, and I obviously know that no one except myself will judge me if I don’t complete my goal. It would just feel like it would be a small, but significant personal victory for me if I now manage to complete the double.
I am a firm believer in reviewing all the things, even the children’s books you can quote from memory (looking at you Chicken Soup with Rice!), if that’s what it takes. You can do this 🙂
Our house is a big fan of The Princess and the Pony, also by Kate Beaton. The farting pony is a big hit with all ages.
I have a stuffed version of the Pony, which has sadly proven to be unsafe around small children. The yarn mane and tail comes loose a little bit too easily when yanked by determined little hands. So while the Pony book is frequently read and enjoyed (especially when we make the farting noises while reading), the Pony stuffie lives safely on a high wardrobe shelf at present.