It's not really "about" anything. The premise, though, is fascinating.

         Allsburg, while at the home of a publisher friend, saw fourteen drawings. He was intrigued, being a Caldecott Award winner himself, and asked his friend about them. The publisher told him that a man named Harris Burdick came to his office hoping to publish fourteen stories he'd written and illustrated. Burdick brought one drawing from each story, promising to bring the rest if there was any interest. The publisher was thrilled, but Harris Burdick was never seen again.

         The publisher searched high and low for Burdick, but never found a trace. Only the fourteen pictures remained. There is a title and caption on each picture, the only clue to the stories that Burdick wrote.

         Allsburg noted that he found it impossible to look at the illustrations without a story popping into his head. The publisher only nodded, then produced a dusty box filled with stories written by his own children. Each one was inspired by Harris Burdick's mysterious illustrations.

         This book marks the first time the drawings have been reproduced and presented to the world.

         The beautiful artwork. There is so much detail in each illustration, if you don't get inspired, you are made of stone.

         I am literally in awe of this book, but if I have to pick something that I didn't like I would say Canned Spinach. The canning process does something to spinach that brings to mind the word mucus. I would definitely say I didn't like Canned Spinach. The book, though, was excellent.

         I believe that writing should be a part of every child's education. I am excited to have this book in my Son's library because I am sure that he will be inspired by it. I was inspired myself. I can't wait to read the stories that come from this book.

         Excited, thrilled, I couldn't wait to sign on so I could tell the creative community here on Stories.com about this bit of magic. I cannot emphasize enough the mysterious nature of this book. If you don't believe me, check it out at the library before you buy. I guarantee you'll be amazed. Amazon.com actually has some excerpts online:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/stores/detail/-/books/0395353939/slide-show...

         Chris Van Allsburg. He is a writer and a gifted illustrator. He wrote "Jumanji," "The Z was Zapped," "The Stranger," and many more.

         How much magic do you have in your life? I happen to be surrounded by the stuff, but most people don't have much. This book is Magic. The real thing. My God, if you have kids, what else would you get them? Power Rangers? Barbie? I say give them this book, and introduce them to the Muse.

         I guess some people like the Power Rangers. If you do, please, don't buy this book.

         I was just on Amazon.com and saw a copy of this book going for 85 bucks. I only paid $18 for mine. Let me just say it again. This book is a phenomenon. I'm telling you, when I read this book, I experienced something truly amazing, and I can't wait for my Son to experience the same thing. I have never been this excited about a book. Ever.

Interested in buying this? Support Writing.Com by making your purchase of The Mysteries of Harris Burdick   from Amazon.Com!

Created Feb 21, 2003 at 7:02pm • Submit your own review...