Opposites Abstract by Mo Willems

10/19/2021

Opposites Abstract

A book is a device to ignite the imagination.  – Alan Bennett (author, actor, playwright, screenwriter)

This new book by Mo Willems is a physical manifestation of Bennett’s statement. It doesn’t just ignite the imagination, it turns it into a raging bonfire, becoming a catalyst for incredible thoughts and conversations.  In his signature 8 x 8 format, Willems presents a series of 40” x 40” abstract acrylic paintings that he created during the pandemic, each two-page spread offering one painting and a question. One spread features what looks like a rainbow as it comes through a prism and the question, “Is this intentional?” The next shows what could be described as a messy rainbow, asking, “Is this accidental?”

Instead of telling the reader what the image is, each page asks the reader to think about what the image might be about. Is it hard? Is it soft? Is it light? Is it dark? It is the perfect opportunity for paired reading, whether between an adult and a child or a group of children, or children together, or even two adults. This book would also be a good tool for reading in adult day care centers or memory care facilities, opening the opportunity for elders to think about what they are seeing and possibly inviting conversation there.

While this book is definitely a departure from Willems’ other works, it is no less important, in fact, this writer would say it is perhaps an even more important book to have in your collection. While there is no denying Elephant & Piggy are endlessly entertaining, and Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus is full of excellent advice, Opposites Abstract is more than just a book. It is a thought generator, a discussion creator, and a conversation agent. We have the publisher’s hardcover edition in stock and ready to ship today.  You can add it to your collection here.