Picture Books Aren’t Just for Kids
Saturday, November 30, 2024. It’s Small Business Saturday—the day after Black Friday. Holiday shoppers are out and about on Chincoteague Island, and a steady stream of book lovers enters the town’s idyllic bookstore.
John and I are seated at a table near the front door. This is our second book signing at Sundial Books, and we’re extra excited today. For this time, we have two books to offer.
We enjoy meeting new people and greeting familiar faces at events such as these. From our experience, folks who frequent local bookstores are some of the most friendly and interesting people you will ever meet.
On this particular day, John and I are blessed to meet Arthur—a verbose, older gentlemen with a memorable story.
John and I introduce ourselves to Arthur, and I ask, “Are you looking for a book for your grandchild? Or perhaps a niece or nephew?” I’m not totally surprised when he responds that he wants to buy a few picture books for himself. We’ve heard this before. Some adults collect books that are autographed by the author.
It’s Arthur’s next statement that throws me for a bit of a loop.
Arthur tells us that he’s learning to read—again. Several months prior, he had a stroke. He goes on to share that he’s already relearned how to walk and to talk, and now, he’s ready to tackle reading.
He has interest in my books for two reasons. Arthur’s neurologist has suggested that, in this start-from-scratch pursuit of reading, picture books with rhyme and repetition are a good choice. Additionally, the doctor recommends that Arthur choose children’s books that he has never read before to assure that he’s not repeating a familiar text from memory.
Pretty smart neurologist, if you ask me.
I’m so grateful to have met Arthur and that he was willing to share his story. I hope our paths will cross again one day and that he will have a 300-page novel in hand. If my books play even the tiniest role in his relearning to read, to God be the glory.
You know, when I began this writing and illustrating journey a few years ago, I never dreamed that adults would want—or need—my books. But it’s true. Picture books aren’t just for kids. Who knew?
Happy reading, Arthur!