Book Review: The Return of the Dapper Men

It is quite difficult to write a "children's" book that also appeals to adults. Being that the adults are the ones who will be stuck reading it over and over and over again, authors need to make their stories appealing to both audiences. Striking this balance can be anywhere from hard to impossible. However, the solution seems to be "The Return of the Dapper Men" which will have kid and grown up fans alike.

The plot is simple, as is typical of children's books, but it is philosophical so adults can get something out of it as well. The story takes place in Anorev where only children and robots live. The clock has stopped ticking and therefore time has ceased. No one remembers the past but instead lives in the present or "now". That is until one day when a boy and a robot journey to find "time" and bring the past back to Anorev.

The real interesting aspect of the story is the relationship between the boy and the female robot. Though they are not the same, they understand each other and are the only characters in Anorev who still pose questions and want to remember the past. Their characters work on many levels as they prove to children that people can be friends despite their differences and that thinking and being unique can change the world.

Children will love this story because it is written almost like a grandfather telling a bedtime story. The pictures are gorgeous and intricate so there is more than enough to look at. Younger readers can take the story at face value that there was a world where time didn't exist. Older readers will understand that the plot is actually symbolic. While adults, will appreciate the philosophical touches. This book makes readers from 4-104 think and question!

In regards to the illustrations and graphics, the book is perfect! The pictures are vibrant and suit all ages. Even the words in the story seem to mesh with the artwork making one full artistic piece instead your typical "picture book" experience.

The only issue I had with the book is that it lost me around the middle of the story when some fantastical events took place that I didn't exactly understand. I felt like I had fallen down the rabbit hole. Fortunately, it picked me back up and I believe that the author added some strange aspects in order to keep the reader on their toes. Additionally, it challenges adult readers as "The Return of the Dapper Men" is certainly not your mother's picture book.

-DLP