The Hand Book by Magda Garguláková, illustrated by Vítězslav Mecner. Albatros Media, 2022. 9788000066004
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 4
Format: Hardcover
Genre: Picture book
What did you like about the book? This unique and artistic exploration of the hand as a tool which possesses myriad talents is quirky, humorous and quite educational. Each of the two page spreads answers questions about the anatomy, evolution, and usefulness of our hands. The illustrations consist of a limited palette of jewel tones, yet the possibilities are endless. Pages are broken into segments with diagrams, text boxes, and comic-like panels. They complement the text without competing with it. This is a text that readers will visit time and again, picking up a new fact or way of thinking about the hand with more respect and admiration than they may have imagined possible.
Anything you did not like about the book? No. It is a fun read that invites the reader to come back another time.
To whom would you recommend this book? Children and adults who are interested in the topic will enjoy learning all about the hand – something we often take for granted.
Who should buy this book? Public and school libraries
Where would you shelve it? Picture books
Should we (librarians) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? No, while very interesting, this book likely has a limited appeal.
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City: Linda Broderick, Lincoln Street School, Northborough, Massachusetts.
Date of review: December 19, 2022
Youth Services Book Review 
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