Nana Loves You More, sub-par illustrated pre-k with great sales numbers

Was it not for the author’s name of Nana Loves You More, very few people outside of those who already have the first three books in the series, would be talking about it? Having said that, it merits the question, if Jimmy Fallon hadn’t written Your Baby’s First Word Will Be Dada, would the others in the series have ever been written? It’s a case of which came first the chicken or the egg? In this case one could also factor in if Nana Loves You More gets more children to read because of its prominent placement in stores across the country, does it really matter?

Those questions presuppose a couple of things that can never be proven. However, the fact that Fallon is the author of three #1 New York Times Bestsellers, which were the first three in this series, as well as the #1 bestselling children’s book, 5 More Sleeps ‘til Christmas, is irrefutable.

Such is the issue that I have with authors who have a massive-sized megaphone or are world-famous for something, who then wade into the world of children’s books. I’m torn because I want kids to read, to learn to read, and to learn to love reading. Whatever gets them to that end goal is great, be it graphic novels, cereal boxes, bus station ads, manga, illustrated books, or subtitles in movies, as long as they read and are able to comprehend what the text is saying life will be easier for them.

I also love making money and want people, as well as companies, to make as much money as they’re able to earn. Even if I don’t like or participate in the field in which you make a living if it’s legal and doesn’t hurt anybody that’s cool.

Nana Loves You More is a harmless illustrated book that’s meant for those aged four and younger who enjoy simple, rhyming text, accompanied with bright images. The images are by Miguel Ordonez and are the style that pre-k kids like. We see a baby panda, accompanied by an older panda, presumably nana, as they go on a variety of adventures. Each page has one line of text on it that compliments the one that’s written on the following page.

At its best, and in theory, Nana Loves You More is a legacy book that grandmothers will sign and give to their grandchild. It’s cute and there’s nothing really to dislike about it, other than the fact that there’s nothing special about it. There are probably other books about nana that are just as cute and effective. However, this one has a celebrity author and thus receives end caps at major retail stores, placement in online shopping banners, a mention on talk shows, and more.

On the upside, it’ll sell books, and getting kids to read is a great thing. So, is the fact of a celebrity going outside of their known industry to do something else a case of being multi-talented or one where they should stay in their lane? Steve Martin is a fabulous comedian, but he’s also a world-famous banjo player. That’s a case of being multi-talented.

Nana Loves You More is cheese pizza from an off-brand convenience store. It delivers as promised, but won’t leave you screaming for more, and you’ll regret the price you paid for its experience. You’ll also be keenly aware that there’s probably world-class pizza or at least an as good (and more affordable) illustrated book on family relations, that’s just around the corner.

Nana Loves You More is by Jimmy Fallon with illustrations by  Miguel Ordonez and available on Feiwel and Friends, an imprint of Mac Kids.

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