(inspired by New York Times article by Pamela Paul )

Their importance for children cannot, should not be underestimated.

We should all become aware of the importance of these picture books. We should fight to read them to kids as long as we can.

The combination and partnership of text and art are much more powerful when taken together. Children’s imagination will soar when these two facets are combined. It’s called visual literacy. How does that combination of text and art work?

Words can be complicated and at times too sophisticated for kids. Children don’t have to try and read them or even understand them. The pictures are the means to absorb the story. Pictures can express and sometimes be more entertaining than the words being spoken. Imagination runs wild!