The artist formerly known as "Weird Al" is not one to "write down" to kids: he adapted his talent for writing clever, funny song lyrics, and has written a clever, funny picture book that's reminiscent of Dr. Seuss' style, but with many words and concepts that are aimed at older, more sophisticated readers. Wes Hargis' super-detailed illustrations enhance the text with additional sight gags. Like Al's music and videos, his picture book is for smart kids with a sense of humor.
When I Grow Up is a book that can be grown into, and it's also a perfect gift for grown ups who are "growing into" one of life's next levels (graduation, new baby, retirement). Dr. Seuss' Oh, the Places You'll Go is still a great gift-of-passage, but When I Grow Up is for the generations who have loved and laughed at "Weird Al" Yankovic.
DISCLAIMER: As a huge "Weird Al" fan, I must admit that this was not exactly an unbiased review.
Gustavo Arellano discusses and signs Ask a Mexican
05/03/2008 4:00 pm
Location:
Street:
Vroman's Bookstore
Additional:
695 E. Colorado Blvd
City:
Pasadena
,
Province:
California
Postal Code:
91101
Country:
United States
Ask a Mexican is the OC Weekly's most popular column, wherein Gustavo Arellano answers the questions and unveils the mysteries of Mexicans living in the U.S. for Americans. The column started as a joke between Gustavo and his editor at the Weekly but has grown and now boasts a weekly circulation of 1.3 million in 22 alternative-weekly publications across the country. Gustavo is a California native & son of an illegal immigrant, a regular commentator for NPR & other radio outlets, and a contributing editor to the LA Times' opinion section.