Are you familiar with Lemony Snicket? I have to admit that I was not, so I was a bit unprepared when I first opened his new picture book, 13 Words. I’m not sure what I expected, but what I found was something not like most other picture books.
Just as the title states, thirteen words are highlighted throughout the odd little story. Yes, I called it odd, although not with the connotation that I don’t care for this book. It is most definitely odd, and the story is not told in the format of a traditional story arc. It could be argued that it’s less of a cohesive story and more of a series of scenes with loose connections between them. With that understanding now, I would approach reading this book aloud in a different way than a traditional picture book, because truly, the emphasis of this book is more focused on the fabulous and fun use of language.
I’m a big fan of fun words, so to be able to read a book with my kids that emphasizes words like despondent, panache and haberdashery is a unique experience. While I first wondered about the storyline, the kids didn’t seem to care at all about the nontraditional format, and they giggled and pointed out the funny details in the beautiful artwork by Maira Kalman.
For a sneak peek at the book and its gorgeous artistry, check out the book trailer, and be ready to laugh:
If you’re looking for a picture book that stands out in the crowd for a unique approach to telling a story, attention to some uncommon words, and beautiful painted illustrations, look no further than 13 Words.
As part of our Gift Guide Giveaway, we are thrilled to offer a copy of 13 Words accompanied by a collection of 13 buttons featuring the 13 special words and illustrations from the book, and a limited edition (only 15 made!), original Maira Kalman piece of artwork! This signed, 5 1/2″ x 7 1/2″ piece is gauche on paper — similarly sized Kalman pieces start at $750. (U.S. residents only, please).
This giveaway is now closed.
Leave a comment here to enter.
Entries will be closed on December 3, and we will announce the winners on December 4. Please watch your email and check the site for your name, so that we can collect your shipping information to pass along to the publishers.
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Dawn’s children anxiously await the new books that greet them every Christmas morning. Their holiday tales will be shared at my thoughts exactly.
I enjoyed looking at the video and sneak peak at this book. It looks like it would be fun to read to my boys. I enjoy tongue twisters myself! Thanks for the giveaway.
I haven’t read anything by Lemony Snicket yet. Since we are really into picture books at our house, this would be a great place to start.
I”d love to add this to my library
lkish77123 at gmail dot com
Looks like something that would make me laugh and amuse my kids too! Thanks for this giveaway!
Sounds like a fun book for me and the kids!
We love Lemony Snicket!
This books looks very enjoyable and creative – just what I would expect from Lemony Snicket.
What a great way to introduce new words. Please enter me, thanks.
I love wordplay books! Excited to see Lemony Snicket in the picture book world!
YES I’m familiar with Lemony Snicket. He is SOO funny! You must read the “Series of Unfortunate Events” to enjoy his mastery of words and concepts.
Even though we are all technically too old for picture books, I know we’d all love this one for his wit and humour–not to mention we get plenty of younger visitors.
The kids would love it! Staciele(at)netins(dot)net
Awesome! My daughter would love this.
Thank you for the chance to brighten the holidays for all the little children.
Neat giveaway, thanks.
Wow, this is an amazing giveaway! I think my 7yo would really get into the use of language in it. And if he isn’t quite ready for it he will be soon.
My 9 year old step daughter would LOVE this!
Sounds fascinating! The artwork is so lovely. Thanks, Maureen (jnomaxx at hotmail dot com)
I enjoy Lemony Snicket and adore art, so sign me up!
What a treat this book would be.
What fun! I love introducing my kids to uncommon words!
Interesting! Please count me in. Thanks.
I’ve been wanting to get this book & wow the artwork. So cool!
My granddaughter would love this!
I love Lemony Snicket, but hadn’t heard of this book before. I would love to share it with my son!
Lemony Snicket fan, please count me in!
This is a very generous giveaway and I love words and humor. Count me in. Thank you!
I’m a huge Lemony Snicket fan–particularly the unauthorized autobiography. Snicket’s humor is does not leave me despondent and he definitely delivers it with panache!
Congratulations, you’re one of our winners! Please email me at morninglightmama (at) gmail (dot) com with your mailing info!
Wow, this is great giveaway!
My daughter would love to have it!
Thank you for this awesome contest.
Wow! Count me in! thanks!
Looks cute -my kids would enjoy!
this would be great to put up for our baby 🙂
my sister would love this
nannypanpan at sbcglobal.net
This would brighten my sons day. We love reading together.
Love this author!!!
my son likes picture books this would b a great stocking stuffer
Wow! What a cool book and a cool idea. My fellow teachers would love to use this book to help with vocabulary building and use in writing a story!
I love Lemony Snicket, and actually haven’t been able to find this book yet in our library or at Borders. Would love a copy!
i recomend the lemony snicket books for young reader. alwasys a fun and thought(disscussion) promting book series.
My daughter would love this. Thank You!
alekee02[at]yahoo[dot]com
I’d love to win this for my son Joshua. He’s a new reader & this would be perfect for him. Thanks for hosting.
I know my grandkids would love this book, they love to read.