167. The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce. Illustrated by William Joyce & Joe Bluhm (US) - (Canada)

Pages: 56
Ages: ALL
Finished: Jun. 17, 2012
First Published: Jun. 19, 2012
Publisher: Atheneum Book for Children
Genre: children, picture book, fantasy, books about books
Rating: 5/5

First sentence: "Morris Lessmore loved words."

Publisher's Summary:  "The book that inspired the Academy Award–winning short film, from New York Times bestselling author and beloved visionary William Joyce.

Morris Lessmore loved words.
He loved stories.
He loved books.
But every story has its upsets.

Everything in Morris Lessmore’s life, including his own story, is scattered to the winds.
But the power of story will save the day.
Stunningly brought to life by William Joyce, one of the preeminent creators in children’s literature, The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is a modern masterpiece, showing that in today’s world of traditional books, eBooks, and apps, it’s story that we truly celebrate—and this story, no matter how you tell it, begs to be read again and again."

Acquired: Received a review copy from Simon & Schuster Canada.

Reason for Reading: Like everyone else I was enchanted with the short film when it came out and linked it on my blog and FB right away.  When I saw the book was out I just had to read it!

An absolutely wonderful, whimsical story for book lovers of all ages.  A delightful story that just lets one become enraptured with the celebration of books and the story they tell.  And even though this "book" is available in true book form here, as a movie, on an ereader and originally as an ipod app, it truly honours the traditional book form in all its ancient glory.  The story is joyous and yet slightly bittersweet, leaving one with the feeling that no matter what happens in the future, true books will always be with us in our heart of hearts.  We just won't let them go!

And for your viewing pleasure please watch the Academy Award winning short: