Birdy’s Tale of a Story

Small introduces the components of a story via the creative process of a would-be author in this self-referential work. When young Birdy has an idea for a book, it “develops QUICKLY. Birdy’s mind conveyor belt starts to flow, which usually means it’s a good idea.” The pale-skinned, bespectacled child picks a genre and settles on a plot, develops the main character as a superhero with a sidekick (inspired by Birdy’s canine), and explores possible settings. Throughout, asterisks define phrases and words, and wry commentary comes from the hound, who acts as companion and comic foil to Birdy’s creative effort. When it’s time to think of an ending, writer’s block strikes (“Like a plug in your brain”), at least until Birdy draws on personal experience for a classic picture book conclusion. Bold coloring and smooth, unlined graphics lend the story a hip aesthetic that pairs easily with the text’s focus on the way books are built. Ages 6–11. (Oct.)