NONFICTION

The Idea in You

by Questlove (text) & illus. by Sean Qualls
Abrams. Sept. 2024. 32p. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9781419738265.
COPY ISBN
Gr 1-5–Where do ideas come from? They can come from anywhere. A star is “idea-ified,” and readers are encouraged to reach for it, hold it, and listen. Maybe it becomes a story, or music, or perhaps it’s one ingredient in a recipe for something greater. Ideas can be sweet, or sad, but are something that can be molded over time and explored again and again. While evocative for adult readers, this title, centered on ideas and other abstract concepts, may be difficult for children to engage with and access. This book will be best consumed by middle elementary students, through conversation with an adult reader who can solicit their creative thinking. Qualls creates fanciful illustrations that are full of depth and texture, and which help to bring the idea of ideas to life—no small feat.
VERDICT An aspirational if abstract selection aimed at encouraging imagination.
Reviewed by Jennifer Noonan , Jul 01, 2024

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