I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen (2011, Walker Books) is my new number one top book for 2011. I know.. big call but I AM going to call it.. an instant classic. Yes, that kind of hype gets bandied around quite a lot these days but I think we will look back on this in 20 years and say yes, she was right it is a brilliant book.
I first picked this book up for its cover. Yes I do that too... pick books up purely for their cover and yes I judge them! I Want My Hat Back happened to tick many boxes .. simple yet thoughtful is the key ... delicate yet bold, beautiful texture, very sweet detailing, sophisticated colours and the expression of the characters are perfect every time .. subtle and perfect (even though the Bear doesn't actually change through out the entire book).. I was impressed. Now for the next challenge .. is the story any good?
Good? I Want My Hat Back had me chuckling in the book isle ... a smirk on my face, thinking "I DISCOVERED A WINNER! yep me, not you obviously cos it's still on the bookshelf dimwits, it's mine I'm going to buy it right now."
Then I wondered if it was just me and my crazy sense of humour and over the top love of children's picture books...
So I have been reading this book to every dang person to come my way... and they all give me that look on the last page .. The look that says "No, did he? Oh yes he did! ha I have to read that to my kids." We have read it at least 10 times in 48 hours at our house.. go find one and read it!
oh my gosh! i gasped when i saw this (i haven't been on your blog in a while-but i love it-very inspiring :). i have been hoarding this book in my classroom ever since my school library got it because i love it so much. i share the same sentiment- absolute classic and the cover is what drew me in immediately as well. my fifth graders think it is hilarious :)!
Posted by: arica | 01 February 2012 at 01:29 PM