THE BOY WHO DID NOT LIKE TELEVISION

Though many children will be disbelieving that such a boy as the one in the title exists, young readers and their parents may find food for thought in this simple, heartfelt message about TV's invasive properties. A narrator describes "a very cute little boy who loved his daddy and mommy very much." He's a loving child with one very pronounced dislike. "But there was one thing the boy really did not like. The boy did not like television. Yes it's true!" The boy's parents try to show their son the wonders of tigers or ball games on the small screen, but the boy will have none of it. The neighbors gossip about the odd child and his parents end up taking their son to a doctor, judge and "magical wizardess"—all of whom see no problem. At last, the boy—who does not speak throughout—demonstrates to his parents what a turned-off television screen is actually good for: reflecting an image of their family, together. The sincere text of this paper-over-board book speaks volumes in any language and will likely strike youngsters as memorable rather than preachy. Artwork featuring crisp bold shapes and thick crayon-like black outlines suggests the kid-friendly work of Ken Wilson-Max and Todd Parr among others. Ages 3-8. (Oct.)