The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore
February 7, 2012
Books are already the winners at this year’s Academy Awards. It may be a ceremony dedicated to honouring the best in film but the power of the word prevails through the Nominee list this year; six of the nine Best Picture Nominees are based on successful books. I’ll list those titles below if you aren’t yet familiar with them … Meanwhile, flying books star in an Oscar-nominated Animated Short Film and that’s what I’ve been itching to share with you.
The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is a 15 minute long film by the creative and talented Moonbot Studios. The short film has been described as: “drawing its inspiration from “Hurricane Katrina, Buster Keaton, The Wizard of Oz, and a love for books. Reviews call it “poignant” and “heartwarming” and a “love-letter to books” but one commenter summed it up perfectly in my mind: “How truly lovely. A beautiful, simple story that, like the best books, reaches the heart of anyone willing to take a moment and enjoy.”
I hope you can open a 15 minute window sometime in your schedule and savour this little tribute to books and reading and so much more. Cheer with gusto when they win their Oscar!
There is also a Flying Books award-winning iPad App you might want to explore. I personally love this Mr. Morris themed iPad case:
And … These are the books which have inspired The Academy Award Best Picture Nominees in 2012:
A Reader’s Bill of Rights
January 29, 2012
The above “Bill of Rights” is the work of one Daniel Pennac and is contained within his popular book, Better Than Life.
Its publisher, Stenhouse Publishers, describes it best: “In Better than Life, Daniel Pennac shares the secrets that all book lovers treasure. Delving into his experiences as a parent, a writer and a teacher, he asks, how does the love of reading begin? How is it lost? And how can it be regained? This remarkable book explores simple ways to create a life-long devotion to reading.”
Sticking to the “Reader’s Bill of Rights”, note that there is an enchanting version of it produced in a stand-alone book illustrated, and with a forward by, Quentin Blake. Anyone recognize the look of Literary Love in that expression?!
Though first drawn to Daniel Pennac by his “Rights”, I was impressed by what I learned about his career and commitment to promoting Literacy for children. An article in the Independent newspaper entitled: Daniel Pennac: Head Teacher from the School of Joy will tell you more … click the link to read on and enjoy!
Reading Here and There
January 22, 2012
I had to chuckle on Saturday morning while reading The Globe and Mail feature “My Books, My Place”. This week’s guest was Kate Beaton, a cartoon artist whose work appears primarily on the web (Hark! A Vagrant) and now in a recently published book format of the same title. Here, along with her illustration above, is Kate’s charming contribution to the Globe:
My favourite place to read is really anywhere so long as I can spread myself out. Couch, rug, bed, whatever feels best. This is because I’m a fidgeter. I flip-flop around a book like it’s the only thing I have to hold onto in a storm.
I wish I could tell you that I read in my favourite café with my legs neatly crossed, sitting next to a peppermint tea atop a dainty saucer, all in a beam of morning light. But I can’t, because I’m lying on my belly, ignoring the fact that leaning on my arms is making them fall asleep. When they do, no problem. I just plop around onto my back and hold the book above my head, or maybe curl around the book on my side in some unnatural fashion, or sit up and balance it on my knees.
Did you just step on something? Oh, that was me. I was rolled up in a blanket on the floor. Don’t worry about it.
When I was a teenager, I even threw sitting awkwardly upside down into the mix, legs thrown up and over the back of an armchair, but had to give that up when I became a Lady because no gentleman worth his salt takes an upside-down person to the altar. Not that I’m fishing for husbands when I’m halfway through the latest George R.R. Martin, but you have to draw a general conduct line somewhere, don’t you think?
Are you like Kate, a fidgeter? I love a big armchair with room to curl … you?
Journaling Inspiration
January 12, 2012
There’s something about January that musters up a desire to be creative – have you found that? Specifically, I find that Journals catch my eye and the idea of keeping one appeals more than usual; I suppose that must be linked to the start of a new calendar year. I have never religiously kept a “Diary” type journal but do have a jumble of well-loved and scrawled upon notebooks – I always have one with me and fill it with random thoughts and observations. If I don’t write it down … whoosh! Gone for good. There are so many beautiful notebooks available these days; the notebook itself can serve as inspiration. It also fascinates me to peek at the notebooks kept by artists. Take a look at these lovely books featuring the sketchbooks of various artists – you’ll be trotting out to pick up a palette of paints or a crisp box of Crayolas (deep sniff – yum!) and bursting forth with your own creativity in no time.
Take a video wander through the pages and hear about An Illustrated Life’s creation below:
Drawn In: A Peek Into the Inspiring Sketchbooks of 44 Fine Artists & Illustrators, Graphic Designers & Cartoonists presented by Julia Rothman. Click on the image to be taken to amazon.ca and an opportunity to look within.
And of course there are a few other artists who have their sketchbooks published for our enjoyment. Here are two classics:
The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady by Edith Holden is out of print nowadays but you can keep an eye out in your local Used books store. Worth a search.
Sara Midda’s tiny watercolours are beautiful. South of France is my favourite but she has done several other books in similar style including In and Out of the Garden.
Feeling inspired yet? You could start by treating yourself to a whimsical notebook like these ones … (available at Chapters and beyond) Have fun!
Christmas Snowy Woods
December 25, 2011
Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening
Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.
He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound’s the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
Robert Frost, 1923
I have always loved the poetry of Robert Frost and this particular poem always makes me think of taking time for a quiet moment during the busy-ness; some of my most cherished Christmas season memories involve snow and horses and I love the image he paints. Whether you be surrounded by snow (Hello Skiers!) or warmed by a hot tropical sun (Hello Hawaii!) or dampened by a soggy mist (Hello Vancouver!) … whatever your holiday weather, I hope you are gathered with family and friends and still finding a quiet moment to reflect peacefully and gratefully on what you value most in the world.
A warm welcome to those who’ve recently joined our Bedside Table Books community and a thank you to those who’ve been here from the start … Have a wonder-ful Holiday season and may fresh pages, and time to read them, await you!
The Greatest Gift: A Wonderful Life
December 18, 2011
Before there was “It’s A Wonderful Life” (the movie that’s become a heartwarming Christmas classic starring Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed) there was a charming little short story that seemed destined never to be read.
Philip Van Doren Stern was a writer and editor with particular expertise on the topic of the Civil War. One morning he awoke having had a strikingly clear dream about a suicidal man who was given an opportunity to view what life would have been like for those he loved had he not lived to impact their lives. Van Doren Stern quickly wrote down the dream in its entirety and then, over the following few years, worked it into a short story he called “The Greatest Gift”. When he believed it was ready to share, he distributed the story in hopes of publication but was met with unanimous rejection. Finally, during World War II, he printed 200 copies himself and distributed them as Christmas cards to friends and family. By chance, a Producer at RKO pictures had a chance to read the short story and was immediately motivated to purchase its film rights. At about the same time, Good Housekeeping magazine printed the story in their January 1945 issue with the title, “The Man Who Was Never Born”. In 1945, RKO sold the film rights again to Frank Capra who created the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life”, released in 1946. “It’s a Wonderful Life” did not enjoy box office success at all but still managed to be nominated for 5 Oscars – it won none. The movie faded away until the early 1970s when a clerical oversight resulted in a failure to renew the film’s copyright. It entered public domain and was promptly picked up by television networks whose frequent seasonal airings turned it into the classic it is now considered.
This holiday season, Graphic Image has issued a limited edition hard cover reproduction of Van Doren Stern’s first self-printed pamphlet which he shared with his friends. It’s a beautiful little book and can even be purchased in a fancy red leather collectible version. Take a peek at it here on the Graphic Image website. What a wonderful Christmas gift for your friends.
I love when a book is the star of the story!
I hope you’re finding time during this week to enjoy a few holiday classics – either in written or movie form.
Goldfinch by Janet Hill
November 16, 2011
On November 3rd I introduced you to the scrumptious artwork of Janet Hill. You will remember the beautiful colours and charming subject matter, often featuring readers with their books. I jotted a quick note to Janet and let her know I was a fan and, as such, had featured her here on Bedside Table Books. She kindly replied, professing her own love of books, and mused that because they were all around her they seemed to find their way into her paintings.
Tonight, as I was about to climb into bed with my book (looking much frumpier and more flannel-ized than the lovely lady above!), I thought I’d drop in on Bedside Table Books and see what was happening. And something WAS happening. A flurry of visitors was making its way over from Janet Hill’s blog site. It seems (and you’ll have to click here and read the story for yourself) that Janet was intrigued by John Gannam who was chatted about along with her here on the 3rd of November. She was so taken by his work in fact, that she was inspired to create the absolutely gorgeous painting above. She writes that she painted it with Gannam and the impish Holly Golightly in mind. The work is called “Goldfinch” and you will want to spend some time admiring it on Janet’s etsy site. Sadly, it has already sold. I am sure it will make its new owner very happy though!
And so I thought I’d share this tale with you – I love a little story of sharing ideas and inspiration … and always with a book in hand.
My Afternoons with Margueritte
November 10, 2011
I’m not sure how this little gem of a movie managed to soar under my book-lovin’ radar but it did … until now. It appears to have been and gone in local theatres (if it “been” here at all) but I plan to persist in my search to find it. Fingers crossed that it’s still on its way to us. Do let us know if you’ve seen it or hear of its arrival. In the meantime, here are two trailers (I couldn’t decide which I liked best) for you to enjoy. It appears to be a literature lover’s dream movie. For those who read in French, the film is based on the novel by Marie-Sabine Roger called La Tete en Friche.
A Brush with Books & Reading
November 3, 2011
Do you share my delight in artwork that captures the enjoyment of reading? I discovered the work of these three artists in recent weeks and knew I had to share their masterpieces with you. I hope you think they are as fun as I do! As usual, clicking on the images will link you to more information.
John Gannam (1907 – 1965) This talented illustrator’s watercolours were a prominent presence in the world of mid-twentieth century advertising. The images above appeared in ads for Pacific Sheets company. Comparisons are frequently drawn between his work and that of his peers Norman Rockwell, Winslow Homer and Edward Hopper. Gannam, however, seemed content with commercial pursuits and didn’t cross over into the world of fine art with the same gusto. His reclusive personality may have factored into his decision. This cute little anecdote below gives us a glimpse.
“Some years ago I chaired the Society’s lecture series. I had Johnny scheduled one evening and he hated it. He claimed he had nothing to say. His only courage was a tumbler of straight whiskey kept just out of sight in the wings offstage. Frequently he politely excused himself, to supposedly clear his throat. His naturally quiet voice was difficult to hear in the rear; it became totally inaudible when he strayed. I finally forced him to hold onto the stand of the microphone even when he walked around. He began to lean on it, and since it was telescopic, it slowly began to get shorter with Johnny following it down, still talking. He ended up bent way down with his head about on the level with his knees and the student audience howling with glee. What his pearly words were at that time remain known only to his knees.”
-Kenneth W. Thompson
Janet Hill – These alluring vignettes are scrumptious (Insert a deep sigh here) and evoke a vintage feel with nostalgic and sometimes sassy sentiments. I have encountered this Canadian artist’s work in several different settings recently and have been thoroughly charmed each time. In an interview in Matchbook magazine’s October 2011 issue, Janet comes across as your favourite bright and quirky chum. Turn to page 61, “Free Spirit” and chuckle over her first date story while learning more about her approach to living creatively. Her work is fun, affordable, and easily accessible on her Etsy website. I’ve been trolling the site with Christmas gifts in mind. (And nooo, not just for myself!)
Paul Beliveau – Another Canadian treasure, Paul Beliveau paints with incredible realism. His collection of serigraphs features cleverly combined book spines as colourful cultural statements. This multiple award winner’s art is featured in a wide variety of significant personal and corporate collections. Superbe!
And don’t forget earlier “artistic” posts: Jane Mount and Sophie Blackall and Alanna Cavanagh.
Creative Juices
September 14, 2011
September seems to prompt the creative juices to get flowing – a loyalty to acquiring education that remains in our hearts long past the school years perhaps. I found myself inspired to read an intriguing non-fiction book called The Element – How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything by Sir Ken Robinson. Robinson may be a familiar name to those of you who’ve had an opportunity to see his TED talk on the importance of incorporating creativity into education. I’ll include links to the talk and to his books below for those who would like to know more about Sir Ken and his theories. He is a compelling (and funny!) speaker and writer. Find his website here and enjoy a number of his archived articles as well.
Meanwhile, I thought I’d share this list with you – it’s posted above my desk to keep me focused (with varying results) – and I hope it prompts you to explore your own creativity with great success!
Books by Ken Robinson:
TED talks:
