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Wednesday, December 14, 2022

BAd drawer, written and illustrated by Seth Fishman (And Friends). Penguin Workshop, Penguin Random House. 2022. $24.99 ages 5 and up

 


"I just wish I could draw like 
some of my friends. 

Tillie - who's always doodling in 
journals - is so good at drawing 
amazing enormous skyscrapers
and scenery. She'd create such 
incredible worlds for Bailey.
"

The audience learns quickly that drawing is not a strong suit for our storyteller. The first few pages have no images; there is only a dejected lament that practice has been plentiful with no real progress.  Anyone taking a careful look can see that trees are okay, as they are made using scribbles.  

While this narrator admits to success at other things, like playing soccer, making cookies, and even being good at math, there is no hope when it comes to art. Despite that fact, the narrator has a story to tell about a mouse, a half-cat half-bird, and their kingdom that needs saving from dragons. In trying to draw the story for readers to see, the scene looks nothing like the imagined one. If only a wish to be like an artistic friend would materialize and change the ability to put what's in the head on the paper. 

Naming Tillie, Jessixa, Jessica, Anna, Travis, and Armand and showcasing their talent only makes things worse. Even little brother Ethan has a talent for drawing. Wait! If asked, would they help create what is so evident in the narrator's head? An exchange could work; homemade cookies for their artistry. 

What a perfect solution! 

Six of the author's artist friends help to create the final double-page spread which brings the narrator's story to glorious life. Isn't that what friends do for each other? Help comes from the best places ... 

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