A bear has lost his hat and he wants it back.I adore this book. It's lovely to see such wonderful use of illustrations as part of the story: the narrative just simply isn't complete unless the reader experiences both the words and the pictures. So many children's books have wonderful illustration of a story it's truly fantastic to find such an intriguing book where the illustrations really are the story. It also has a special place in my library as the first book I read my now 18 month old nephew (over skype shortly after it was published) and one of the first books he ever asked for by name. I will continue to enjoy reading "Hat Back" to him as long as he continues to ask for it to be read.
Fans of Jon Klassen can find more of his illustrations in other wonderful books including:
This is Not My Hat -- Another fabulous book both written and illustrated by Jon Klassen and only just out! His slightly dark humor (and apparent love of hat theft themes) are back in this fun story about a fish who steals a hat that's just the right size.
Extra Yarn (written by Mac Barnett) -- As a knitter and Jon Klassen fan I was very excited about this and it did not disappoint. I particularly liked the bright colors of the yarn against the harsh black and white background. Keep an eye out in this one for some old friends from Hat Back.
House Held Up by Trees (written by Ted Kooser) -- The writing was beautiful, and the illustrations are splendid, but it feels like a picture book for grown-ups being marketed to children rather than something a child would really love.
