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.
Hal Harris is a straitlaced young striver who's never played poker before in his life. His brother Guy is a big deal poker player, and when Guy dies, Hal inherits a tournament entry chip into the Poker Apocalypse. To unravel the mystery of Guy's death, Hal sharpens his tournament skills and delves into the world of poker filled with cutthroat characters.