The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr Morris Lessmore

This is the book that I would give as a Christmas present to my children’s teacher librarian, classroom teacher and principal: if my children were in school. Firstly because they would love it, and secondly because it is a reminder that stories are to be nurtured and celebrated.

The experience that is the book, ibook, app and animated film of ‘The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr Morris Lessmore’ is quite possibly the future of children’s books. The multimedia component and different ways of reading this text: combining digital and print, create the perfect reading experience for children (and adults) of today. All forms of the book can be accessed from the Morris Lessmore website.

As I’ve said before I’m not a fan of the ‘book is dead’ bandwagon, but I also know that digital reading is causing waves. There is simply no denying that books and technology are merging, dancing around each other, and becoming interconnected.

‘The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr Morris Lessmore’ is the best example that I have seen yet of the book and the ibook, app, animation being in perfect harmony. All the forms of this book are exquisite, and each form has its place in experiencing the story. Once you watch the YouTube clip I guarantee you that the story will stay with you, and eventually you’ll seek the book in a library, bookshop or online.

The movie is visually beautiful and has won multiple awards, including an Oscar for Best Animated Short Film at the 84th Academy Awards. But the book has a quietness, peace and solidity about it that you will never experience digitally. It made me cry just a little, and it filled me with hope that story, in whatever form, will always exist.

The app lets you truly experience what it may feel and look like to get lost in a book, and the music is divine.

Publisher’s notes:
Morris Lessmore loved words.
He loved stories.
He loved books.
But every story has its upsets.
Everything in Morris Lessmore’s life, including his own story, is scattered to the winds.
But the power of story will save the day.
Stunningly brought to life by William Joyce, one of the preeminent creators in children’s literature, The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is a modern masterpiece, showing that in today’s world of traditional books, eBooks, and apps, it’s story that we truly celebrate—and this story, no matter how you tell it, begs to be read again and again.

Read it. Now. In whatever form you can find first.