'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Saturday 17 October 2015

Review: Action Movie Kid

The two creators of this book are the husband and wife team behind YouTube’s highly successful Action Movie Kid. The story tells of James, a very young child with a highly active imagination that is allowed to express himself in any way he wants. Total freedom gives him the power to fight and destroy enemies, have superior strength, be a champion at martial arts, see through walls, destroy things, and act out whatever his mind can conceive.

These powers aren’t always used for good. They get James into lots of big trouble, although he still manages to take part in unlimited adventures that exceed all possibilities.

His parents try to have quiet time with James. But quiet and still are not words in James’ vocabulary. Especially when he plays mechanic on dad’s car, or gets hold of a hammer and nails inside the house. Whatever he does, he lives his imagination. When things get too hot to handle, there’s always mum and dad to save him.

This book has outstanding illustrations, a fantastic layout and design. It is truly visually superior. Although I frequently say that about picture books, it’s the best way to describe something that fills the eye with pleasure through colour, movement and expression.

The pictures are large on the page, just like James. With strong lines and vibrant colours, each young child enjoying the free and unrestricted adventures with James, will see something of themselves in him somewhere in this book.

Title: Action Movie Kid
Author: Daniel Hashimoto & Mandy Richardville
Illustrator: Valerio Fabbretti
Publisher: Simon & Schuster, $19.99RRP
Publication Date: May 2015
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781476799896
For ages: 5+
Type: Picture book