ROCO Films
Available to view on Apple TV+
Some folks might say the market for children’s picture books is dying, and I have to say no. What Story & Pictures By reveals is this type of publication continues to be popular and when educational content is attached, much more so! And unlike those works that I read growing up (Curious George), what’s different now is a better representation from a group of authors who say it’s better than ever! Christian Robinson, Yuyi Morales, and Mac Barnett are the focus on Joanna Rudnick‘s excellent documentary.
Also, balancing well-known past illustrators with current leading artists must have been a hard task for the filmmakers. The talents who stand out are those who illustrate their own work and will talk about what helped define them.
The books today teach kids how to love each other and understand that the colour of their skin doesn’t matter. Diversity matters a lot more and that detail is hard not to miss when I was watching this work for the second time. Even adult issues can get disguised in understandable terms for the younger mind to process. These days, it’s not just about the action and adventure, but much more.
Also, important is in learning about the world as it was, back when beloved classics like Goodnight Moon, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Snowy Day, and Where the Wild Things Are (Amazon links) first released. This segment brings some chapters to wonderful animated life, and I wondered if this work would explore why some children’s books are chosen for theatrical presentations. Unfortunately, such is not the case, but I remain hopeful that someone will make a documentary to explain the process studios used to decide on what children’s picture books are chosen over others. There may exist an argument that an illustrated children’s novel and picture book are different, but I’m honestly unsure. When DreamWorks Animation is really leading the charge in looking for properties to “buy out,” I really have to know.
Instead, what’s revealed is an impressive look at the world of publishing. Unlike those works authored long ago, today’s talents have more competition. Not everyone can be like the next Mr. Rogers. Success depends on what these folks want to impress. While self-promotion is also key–a detail that’s well explored here–there’s also having the charm to impress the masses when they are touring, and that’s what makes this work shine.
4 Stars out of 5
Story & Pictures By Trailer
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