Review: This Book Is Not For You - Howard Pearlstein and Illustrated by Susanna Covelli

Review: This Book Is Not For You - Howard Pearlstein and Illustrated by Susanna Covelli - August 2024

Howard Pearlstein’s *This Book is Not For You*, illustrated by Susanna Covelli, is a brilliant romp through the world of humor and irony, delightfully skewering the conventional wisdom of children's books. Received as an ARC from NetGalley, this picture book defies expectations with its dynamic blend of storytelling and illustration. From the first page, Pearlstein captures readers with an irreverent narrator who insists that this book is, indeed, "not for you." The narrator—a grumpy, mustachioed fellow with a Hercule Poirot-like flair—bemoans the book's content, claiming it is devoid of anything a child could possibly find appealing. No monsters, no ninjas, no aliens—just an endless litany of what makes a book decidedly uninteresting for young readers. Howard Pearlstein’s narrative voice is hilariously out of touch, adding a layer of comedic detachment as the narrator remains oblivious to the vibrant, lively action happening around him. Enter Susanna Covelli’s illustrations, which are a marvel of contrast. The illustrations burst with the very elements the narrator decries: monsters, aliens, and outrageous antics that are the exact opposite of "not cool" or "not silly." The magic of this book lies in its meta-humor and visual storytelling. As the narrator grumbles, the illustrations depict a chaotic world brimming with excitement—monsters pop out from behind the pages, aliens dance, and adventures unfold with a gusto that the narrator fails to notice. It’s a delightful commentary on the mismatch between adult expectations and children's genuine interests. This book is a perfect read for children aged 6-9 years old, engaging them in a playful interaction with the text and illustrations. It’s the kind of book I would have happily shared during my library school visits, as it promises fun and interaction in spades.
*This Book is Not For You* is a cleverly crafted, interactive experience that turns the idea of a “boring book” on its head, making it a must-read for any child who enjoys a good laugh at grown-ups' expense.

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ZgyJ1v