Review - Dad, I Love You Because...

Dad, I Love You Because...
by Laura D. MacCallum & Rhea MacCallum
illustrated by Fabrice Florens
Date: 2018
Publisher: Peathraichean Publishing
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book
Pages: 40
Format: e-book
Source: NetGalley

An ideal gift for the Dad who has everything!

Featuring the adorable illustrations of Australian artist, Fabrice Florens, Dad, I Love You Because... expresses shared moments between a father and his growing children, with scenes ranging from teaching them to walk, teaching them to drive, and everything in between and beyond. This bright and colorful book is an ideal way for children of all ages to tell the person they call "Dad" just how much he is appreciated. Dad, I Love You Because... is sure to be a cherished gift, perfect for Father's Day, Dad's birthday, or any day that you want to convey your gratitude for your Dad and all he has done for you.

(synopsis from Goodreads)

As a personal gift for the authors' father (which this was), this book is fine. As a product intended for public consumption, it's not.

Dad, I Love You Because... has no real story. It's basically one long, run-on sentence detailing the various things the authors' father did for them. Some of the things are pretty personal and aren't going to apply to everyone. There are mentions of Dad playing the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus, too, which might not be appropriate for some younger readers.

I'm not a fan of this style of illustration at all. The rest of the book's aesthetic isn't much better. The free font (I don't know the name of it, but it's one I've seen many time before) just makes the book look really self-published.

I'm sure the MacCallums' father was thrilled with this gift. But the book is a little too personal and specific to be a great gift for the general public. Kids would do better to write their own book to give to their fathers for birthdays, Father's Day, etc. so they can personalize it for their own specific circumstances.

Thank you to NetGalley and Peathraichean Publishing for providing a digital ARC.

Premise: 2/5
Meter: n/a
Writing: 1/5
Illustrations: 2/5
Originality: 2/5

Enjoyment: 0/5

Overall: 1.17 out of 5