The Book with No Pictures

Actor Novak's expert sense of comic timing is on full display in his first picture book, which, true to its title, only contains words on a white background. Different font types, sizes, and colors signal important changes in tone and voice to whomever is reading the story aloud (and the book's jokes rely on a readaloud setting). "It might seem like no fun to have someone read you a book with no pictures," Novak writes early in the book, his words set in a black serif font that all but demands a serious, James Earl Jones-style voice-over. Then the kicker: "Here is how books work. Everything the words say, the person reading the book has to say. No matter what." Cue sound effects ("BLUURF") and nonsense statements ("I am a monkey who taught myself to read") designed to make a laughingstock of the adult reader while keeping children howling, even as the reader's "voice" lodges its protests ("Wait a second--is this whole book a trick?"). A strong first showing for Novak that's sure to deliver big laughs. Ages 4-8. Agent: Richard Abate, 3 Arts Entertainment. (Aug.)

Copyright 2014 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

K-Gr 2--The actor (and writer, producer, and director) has penned his first picture book, but can it be called a picture book when there are no pictures? Entering the field of unique interactive books begging to be opened, including Herve Tullet's Press Here (Chronicle, 2011) and Adam Lehrhaupt's Warning: Do Not Open This Book! (S. & S., 2013), this title will instantly intrigue children. Upon opening the book, readers are drawn in ("Here is how books work: everything the words say, the person reading the book has to say. No matter what."). What follows is an uproariously raucous time, with readers being forced to utter nonsense words ("blork," "bluurf") and phrases that will have young listeners in stitches ("And my head is made of blueberry pizza."). Admittedly, there are no illustrations, but Novak has employed the use of various sizes of black typeface with expansive white space and color to highlight some of the text. This book is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, and it's perfect for one-on-one sharing with a parent or caregiver. Expect requests for repeated readings.--Michele Shaw, Quail Run Elementary School, San Ramon, CA

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.