I am Jim Henson (Ordinary People Change the World Series)
By Brad Meltzer, Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
Published by Dial Books
ISBN-10: 052542850X
Age Range: 5-8 years old
40 pages, Hardcover
$12.69 on Amazon
Just out today is the new book from the Ordinary People Change the World children's book series, I am Jim Henson, the most famous puppeteer of all time and creator of Sesame Street and The Muppets. Chloe told me that this was her favorite book from the whole series because she learned about Jim Henson who was a creative person -- just like her. I have to tell you this melted my heart. We have accumulated now quite a few books from this series that showcases a famous person in history or pop culture. What's unique is that each book showcases the main character as a child, and how their curiosities and strengths helped them become who they are as an adult. Chloe had never heard of Jim Henson. She of course knew Sesame Street and The Muppets so she was excited to discover how they all came to be. She has read this book by herself a few times but she loves it so much that we also have read it together at bedtime.
The book starts from the beginning showing how Jim Henson's creativity and genius came to be. Henson had a vivid imagination and loved to go to the movies. He would later re-create scenes with his friends using homemade props and costumes. His grandparents were also a huge influence at encouraging his creating and imagination. Chloe grew up on Sesame Street so she loved seeing how he went through the process of creating that show. In fact, I think it's great to see that Henson's first show wasn't popular (eventually cancelled) but was the show that started him on his journey of puppetry and storytelling.
Jim Henson wanted to be funny, but always in a kind way. I think that's a really strong message for kids, now more than ever in the new political landscape in this country. I am Jim Henson tells such an amazing story of how one man continued to use his imagination to tell stories and laugh with kids. This is definitely a book to add to your children's bookshelf!
Here are more photos from the book, I am Jim Henson:
Review book provided by Penguin Books for Kids
