When I say I’ll read anything that Mac has written, I’m usually only signing up for a fun-filled, ten-minute romp through a whimsical, ingeniously constructed picture book. How delightful to find that, when it comes to essays on children’s books, the recently appointed Ambassador For Young People’s Literature (complete with his own office in the Library of Congress, “conveniently located 2,808 miles from my home in Oakland, California!”), is just as whimsical and ingenious, as well as insightful and delightful. Kids’ books merit grown-up conversation,” MB tells us in the foreword, and goes on to prove it, by using words like ‘ineffable’ and ‘bromide’ and ‘liminal.’ Topics covered include: didacticism in children’s literature; how to connect with kids; and a wonderful dissection of Goodnight Moon, (a book which has always terrified and disturbed me, and at least now I know why!) Essential reading for lovers of kids, kids’ books, books, and all things wonderful.
Make Believe by Mac Barnett, (List Price: $20, Little, Brown and Company, 9780316601122, May 2026)
Reviewed by Doron, Octavia Books in New Orleans, LA