I have been a big fan of CBS Sunday Morning since I arrived in America in the late 1970’s. I liked the show, because the former host, Charles Kuralt, had a wonderful way with words. Overall, I enjoy how the program introduces its’ audience to the hidden lives of people that are public and yet extremely private.
On February 21, 2016, I watched the feature on actor and writer B.J. Novak whom I have seen on TV shows, but I never gave him a second thought. His description of his story, A Book without Pictures, however, grabbed my attention. I felt, "At last, here is a writer who gets it!"
I am writing about this, because I was recently asked why I had so few illustrations in the book I self-published, “Sammy Ringtail’s Adventure to the Big City.”
On my small island of Antigua, I grew up without much access to books, and none with pictures. Some educators and parents think that all children’s stories should have pictures in order for them to get the meaning of the story. Children, however, are smarter than most adults think.
As a former Elementary teacher, I loved reading un-illustrated books to my class. I found that students got more enjoyment when they were allowed the freedom to create their own imagery of the story. I believe that this helps to develop childrens' listening and critical-thinking skills. Therefore, I compliment B.J. Novak for giving writer's permission to create a children's story without pictures, and giving children permission to enjoy it.
What do you think? Please share in the comments below. I would love to hear your recommendations for other children's stories without pictures.
