Book Review Summary: The Big Question

Introduction

"The Big Question" by Wolf Erlbruch is a stunningly beautiful and poetic illustrated book for children that poses the biggest of all big questions: Why am I here? The book features a chorus of voices from various characters, including a cat, a baker, a pilot, and a soldier, each offering their own answers to this profound question. With its captivating illustrations and thought-provoking content, "The Big Question" has captured the hearts and minds of readers of all ages. In this article, we will delve into the author's background, analyze the common opinions of readers, and explore the reasons for both recommending and not recommending this book.

About Wolf Erlbruch

Wolf Erlbruch, the author of "The Big Question," is considered one of Europe's most important illustrators. Born in Wuppertal, Germany, Erlbruch has written and illustrated numerous books for children. His unique style, which combines various techniques such as cutting and pasting, drawing, and painting, has garnered widespread recognition both within and outside Germany. Erlbruch's storybooks often tackle mature topics like death and the meaning of life, making him a prominent figure in the world of children's literature. In 2002, he was awarded a special career award from the German Children's Literature Circle, further solidifying his status as a master storyteller.

Analysis of Views

1. A Clear and Simple Statement: Many readers found "The Big Question" to be a clear and simple statement of the postmodern worldview. They appreciated its ability to convey complex ideas in a straightforward manner, making it accessible to children and adults alike.
2. Perspective and Point of View: The book's exploration of perspective and point of view resonated with readers who appreciated its emphasis on subjective grounding. It encouraged readers to reflect on their own experiences and form their own opinions on the question of existence.
3. Engaging Illustrations: The book's captivating illustrations, which include collage and extensive use of white space, were praised by readers for their creativity and visual appeal. The illustrations enhanced the storytelling experience and added depth to the narrative.
4. Personalized Answers: Readers enjoyed the fact that the book doesn't provide a definitive answer to the question of existence but instead offers a variety of answers from different characters. This allowed readers to consider their own beliefs and create their own unique answers to the question.
5. Philosophical Depth: Some readers appreciated the philosophical depth of the book, which delved into existentialist themes without being overwhelming. They found it refreshing to see a children's book tackle such complex topics in a way that was both accessible and thought-provoking.

Reasons for Recommendation

1. Engaging Storytelling: The book's captivating narrative and engaging illustrations kept readers engaged from beginning to end. It offered a delightful reading experience that appealed to both children and adults.
2. Thought-Provoking Content: The book's exploration of existential questions challenged readers to ponder their own beliefs and perspectives on life. It encouraged self-reflection and sparked meaningful conversations about the nature of existence.
3. Accessibility: The book's clear and simple language made it accessible to children, while its philosophical depth made it enjoyable for adults. It bridged the gap between different age groups and provided a shared reading experience.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

1. Repetitive Nature: Some readers found the repetitive nature of the question posed in the book less interesting than they had hoped. While they appreciated the variety of answers provided by different characters, they felt that the repetition detracted from the overall reading experience.
2. Limited Relevance: A few readers felt that the book's exploration of existential questions might not be relevant or relatable to all children. They believed that some children might find it too abstract or difficult to comprehend without additional guidance or context.

Conclusion

"The Big Question" by Wolf Erlbruch is a beautifully illustrated book that poses one of life's most profound questions: Why am I here? Through its captivating storytelling and thought-provoking content, it has captured the hearts of readers young and old. While some readers found it engaging and thought-provoking, others felt that its repetitive nature or limited relevance detracted from their enjoyment. Nonetheless, "The Big Question" remains a memorable read that encourages self-reflection and sparks meaningful conversations about existence.