mjfmjfmjf's review against another edition
3.0
Okay. So this book is clever and cute. And it breaks the fourth wall. But it goes too far. And it is not nearly as clever and as cute to make up for the awfulness of the writer as a character in this book. And it even gets a bit tedious. And sure there is a twist at the end, but not enough of a twist. 2.5 of 5.
daisycakesco's review against another edition
4.0
How very meta - a book about the relationship between author and illustrator making a book. Definitely a one-on-one sharing book, and for K - 3 kids. And holy cow do Mac Barnett and Adam Rex look good in plasticine!
yapha's review against another edition
4.0
Mac Barnett has a wacky imagination, and his books never disappoint! In this one, the overbearing author tries to take control of the book away from the illustrator with disastrous results. A fun and entertaining read. Would make a great introduction to a story writing unit for students.
wildeaboutbooks's review against another edition
5.0
I loved this book! It was clever, unique, unpredictable and entertaining all around.
stenaros's review against another edition
4.0
Funny! This was recommended by my friend Sara and I got it from the library even though it was a picture book and I don't usually spend time reading them. I read it and spent ten minutes laughing out loud alone in the house. Laughing out loud while reading by myself is always an odd pleasure for me. There's the laughter, which is great, but then the kind of creepy feeling that I might be a little crazy. After I enjoyed it, I insisted that Matt read it. Now I'm insisting that you do too. It will take 10 minutes. Laughter is good for you. Maybe you can read it aloud to someone so you can both laugh together and avoid the creepy feeling. Just do it.
libraryrobin's review against another edition
4.0
An hilarious story in which the author tries to tell the story of Chloe and a lion but the illustrator draws a dragon instead. This leads to an argument between them, derailing the narrative and hijacking the story. In the end, the author discovers the importance of a good illustrator and readers are rewarded with a fun story.
A variety of artistic styles are used to differentiate between real people, scenery, and well- or poorly-illustrated characters. These add to the richness of the story, giving it an additional dimension.
A variety of artistic styles are used to differentiate between real people, scenery, and well- or poorly-illustrated characters. These add to the richness of the story, giving it an additional dimension.
jshettel's review against another edition
5.0
I have two words for how great this book is: Adam Rex. If the Caldecott award was given to "most creative illustrations," this one would be the winner. A mix of puppets, claymation and painting, the interplay between the author and illustrator while simultaneously narrating and illustrating the story makes this a unique reading experience.
dbrannan's review against another edition
4.0
A fairly funny tale and great for teaching the different between author and illustrator.