FICTION

The Imaginary Alphabet

Pajama Pr. Sept. 2023. 64p. Tr $22.95. ISBN 9781772782998.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 2–“Dizzy Dinosaurs Dancing in the Dark,” “Majestic Macaws Making a Magnificent Mess,” “Wild Wolves Wandering the Wintery Woods.” Unassuming at first glance, this sophisticated yet whimsical, alphabet book lures readers into a fantastical alliterative rabbit hole and is visually captivating, with the utmost attention to detail. A spread is devoted to each letter of the alphabet, highlighting illustrated letters on the left coupled with a surreal look-and-find scene on the right. Daigneault’s digitally enhanced colored pencil drawings are vivid dreamscapes of nature, magic, and imagination that play along with each alliterative description that proceeds. Readers of all ages will linger and absorb the many whimsical plants, animals, and objects woven throughout each carefully crafted illustration. Back matter provides a guide for the hidden components incorporated into each illustration, and readers will surely scan each drawing to make sure all elements are discovered. Some details depicted will not be easily identifiable for the youngest readers, but when enjoyed with an older reader, the book may serve as an opportunity for extending vocabulary. Early elementary aged children will be drawn to the stunning illustrations and gamelike details of the book, but the most interest will likely be shown by grown-ups nostalgic for Graeme Base’s Animalia.
VERDICT An enchanting, artistic interpretation of the alphabet, sure to delight readers from A to Z.

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


RELATED 

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?