Some may know him as Ryan from the popular television show, The Office, but the actor B.J. Novak, has decided to branch out. In addition to being an actor, comedian, and screen-writer, he is also an author. Within this authorship, I see some entrepreneurial spirit. Published just 5 days ago, The Book Without Pictures, is a children’s book with a novel idea. This title is quite literal, as the book contains no pictures. A reader would find a slew of silly words that are displayed vibrantly in an assortment of colors, fonts and sizes.
This idea struck me as simple, yet entrepreneurial and ingenious. Publishing a book definitely requires some entrepreneurial and persistence, however much easier it may be made by acting fame. This type of book also takes a pivot at looking at children’s books. Instead of using pictures “just because”, Novak has instead looked at how children’s books are for entertainment. He certainly has captured kid’s attention, with understanding how many children love to lave at silly words.
I love how he approached writing children books! It sounds crazy at first, taking pictures out of children’s book, but somehow he made it work. He doesn’t distract from the story with pictures, but he creates a fun way to read with colorful and attractive words. This makes me want to read his book.
I’m not familiar with the content of Novak’s book, but I like the concept. From the picture in this post, however, it seems that he used a lot of onomatopoeia and made up words, which seems like it takes away from some of the genius of his idea. He could get parents who want to instill a love of reading in their children to purchase books without pictures if he used real words in them.
I think it’s great when entrepreneurs do exactly the opposite of what the norm is. Regardless of whether this is successful or not, I admire the idea and initiative.