In No Books for Benjamin? by R.G. de Rouen, readers are introduced to an extraordinary little worm with an insatiable love for books. Benjamin isn’t your typical earth-dweller; he lives and works at none other than the Library of Congress, where he enjoys a daily feast of fresh stories and endless pages. Surrounded by the written word, his life couldn’t be more perfect, until a mysterious illness called The Purple Dots sweeps through the country, forcing libraries everywhere to close their doors indefinitely.

Suddenly, Benjamin is left heartbroken. No new books. No new stories. Just silence. Desperate to keep his passion alive, he consults Ms. Nicholas, the wise librarian, and together, with the help of both human and animal friends, they hatch a clever, collaborative plan. But what exactly is their idea? And will it be enough to bring books back into Benjamin’s life?

This delightful picture book is a heartfelt celebration of reading. Benjamin’s charm is undeniable, and children will instantly connect with his wide-eyed enthusiasm and boundless curiosity. He’s not only adorable, he’s inspiring. His determination to find a solution teaches young readers the value of teamwork and creative problem-solving.

What stands out most in de Rouen’s storytelling is his ability to deliver meaningful messages without ever being heavy-handed. The book playfully emphasizes the joy of collaboration and community, with Benjamin and his friends working together toward a common goal. Even the concept of “The Purple Dots” illness, while referencing a challenging event, is portrayed with humor and imagination that will spark giggles rather than fear.

De Rouen enriches the experience further by including a page of fascinating insect facts, tying the story to educational content in a seamless way. His website also features a treasure trove of engaging extras, printable bookmarks, coloring pages, and even a maze that extends the fun long after the last page is turned.

The illustrations by Uliana Barabash are a visual treat. Rendered in bold, full-page acrylic-style paintings, each image bursts with color and whimsy. Her attention to detail and affection for animals, plants, and nature shine through, adding depth and personality to every scene. It’s easy to get lost in the expressive characters and lush backgrounds she’s brought to life.

No Books for Benjamin? is a joyful, imaginative journey that celebrates books, friendship, and perseverance. Charming, educational, and beautifully illustrated, it’s a must-have for any child’s library.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0FQ3R91TG