Listen! Listen!

My kids love Ann and Paul Rand books.

This delightful 1970 childrens' book was a collaboration between author Ann Rand and her famous husband, graphic designer Paul Rand. Recently reissued in an unabridged edition from Princeton Architectural Press, Listen! Listen! visualizes the act of hearing with easy-to-follow text and eye-catching art. The simple rhythm of the text makes an excellent book for reading aloud to younger kids (suggested for ages 3-5, according to the publishers). It's especially suitable for parents who would enjoy acting out the sounds of a hammer, raindrops, a lion, the wind, etc. For adults who enjoy nice design, it offers a way to see the whimsical side of Paul Rand. His illustrations combine paper cutouts and exuberant lines in beautifully composed, kinetic spreads. Despite being published 46 years ago, this book feels as contemporary as any current kiddie book - it takes real talent to do that!The publisher supplied me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.