Adrian Simcox - a thematically rich picture book

   As soon as I heard about Adrian Simcox Does NOT Have a Horse, by Marcy Campbell, I pre-ordered it. I could tell this book was going to be right up my alley. And it was!
   In the first place, I couldn't wait to go on this thematic journey. The story is about the freedom of imagination, the effects of socio-economic status on kids, and putting yourself in someone else's shoes. It's thematically rich. 
   In the second place, the book is illustrated by Corinna Luyken, author-illustrator of the unique and intriguing The Book of Mistakes. And it (brilliantly!) uses NEGATIVE SPACE to represent Adrian's imaginary horse.

   Finally, although I appreciate a simple text (as is the current publishing trend), this story goes deeper. It's thoughtful. It's a literary work--for kids. The main character (Chloe) is smart, bold, and logical. As a byproduct of her outlook, she's also judgmental. When she's faced with an issue that doesn't fit into a logical box, her judgmental side kicks into high gear. She can't figure out why Adrian Simcox would say he has a horse when he doesn't. Her irritation comes to a fever pitch and she decides to expose Adrian as a liar.
   To her credit, Chloe is willing to remain open to possible explanations she hasn't thought of yet--answers that bloom in the beautiful imagination of Adrian Simcox.
   I love this book because it will make kids think. I love it because it makes ME think. I am sometimes judgmental (like Chloe), because I don't have enough information to be able to imagine someone else's perspective and unique life challenges. I appreciate this book, and wish for more like it in the world. Adrian Simcox Does NOT Have a Horse is the kind of book that can make the world a better place.