Staff Pick
What makes life fun, and what makes it dreadfully boring? When the inquisitive main character in Japanese author/illustrator Shinsuke Yoshitake’s adorable picture book explores the subject of boredom with intense scrutiny, the result is anything but dull. With the help of bright, funny illustrations bound to put a smile on anyone’s face, The Boring Book demonstrates how a creative young mind can turn any topic — even a philosophical quandary as nebulous as 'What is boredom?' — into a rousing adventure. It’s the ultimate remedy for those two words every parent dreads: I’m bored. Recommended By Renee P., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
Boredom: humankind's age-old adversary. It's a state that is undesirable, uninteresting... and just plain boring. But as one particularly bored boy discovers, there's actually more to boredom than meets the eye — more questions, more theories, and heaps of humor. This exploration of boredom from acclaimed author-illustrator Shinsuke Yoshitake playfully — and hilariously — unpacks the ways in which a seemingly stagnant state is actually a portal into a dynamic, life-enriching experience. For anyone who's ever been mind-numbingly bored, this smart, laugh-out-loud picture book just might change your perspective on the state of boredom forever.
Review
“A terrific reminder for readers of all ages that boredom is always optional.” Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
Review
“Sure to entertain self-proclaimed bored children everywhere, provide them with food for thought, and inspire a few chuckles as well.” School Library Journal, Starred Review
About the Author
Shinsuke Yoshitake is the author-illustrator of The I Wonder Bookstore and the creator of many award-winning picture books. He lives in Japan.