Monday, April 6, 2009

I know a lot of things by Ann & Paul Rand

I know a lot of things by Ann & Paul Rand
Geared Towards: Ages 2-6
Published By: Chronicle Books
Publication Date: February 2009 (reissue pub date)
ISBN: 978-0-8118-6615-6

Published originally in 1956 by Harcourt, Brace & World, Ann & Paul Rand's classic picture book I know a lot of things has been only recently reissued by Chronicle Books. And how lucky for those of us who had never had the pleasure of reading, or even hearing of it, before now. If you're looking for a book that will encourage your little one and get them excited both about reading and learning, this is one I must suggest.

The colorful illustrations are visually stimulating, and the rhymthic rhyme of the text is pleasing and fun. Written on a preschooler's cognitive level, reading this will inspire children to never be satiated with their current knowledge but to always be hungry to learn even more. Parents or teachers can use this book as a lead in with their little ones to see just how much those little brains have already absorbed about the world around them. Grab ahold of your hat though because once this ship sets sail there will be no stopping these kids from taking everything in around them and then quickly wanting to share it all with you.

On a side note... I wanted to say that I love how Chronicle stuck with a very classic feel and appearance with this reprint. The pages, unlike many picture books released these days, have the matte texture and look which do wonders for maintaining the classic air. The illustrations themselves appear to have retained the original rich coloring I am used to seeing in books printed in the 50's and 60's. Having never seen the original I can't say for sure, but it really looks like they didn't amp anything up, but rather stuck with everything from the original. I think this was simply brilliant!

OUR RATING: 5 hearts

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