THE HIDDEN ALPHABET

An outstanding alphabet book that is graphically distinguished as well as useful for the purpose intended: object and letter identification. Most objects pictured, one per page, will be common to young children (although a few like “arrowhead” and “quotation mark” may not), and they will be easily identified. The use of clean lines and simple shapes throughout, with occasional subtle texturing, renders the book artistic yet accessible. The organizing principle is clear and consistent as well as unique. Each keyword is printed in clear, lowercase typeface, white on black, with a black flap framing the object. The flap lifts to reveal that the picture is indeed part of the alphabet letter itself, therein making creative use of negative space. Two balloons representing the letter “b” actually form the holes in the capital letter “B.” Each page comes as an ingenious surprise. Colors are saturated and show up handsomely inside the black frames. Printed on sturdy stock, this should survive many circulations in small hands. Beautifully designed, fascinating to browse, and eminently successful. (Picture book. 3-6)