The Merchant of Marvels and the Peddler of Dreams

So begins this wonderful book which certainly tempted me! The magnificent Merchant of Marvels takes readers on a journey through a charming story, enhanced by various fairy tales, myths, etc. and adorned with Clement's lovely and original illustrations. This is a book that I was not content just to peruse--I HAD to buy it. A unique and beautiful acquisition for book lovers! I'm not sure if this is considered a children's book, but it seems to be one of those rare tomes that children and adults alike adore--share it with your child or your parent or your spouse or your hairdresser. Perhaps, too, it might be a good book for those who are reluctant to read (if you're a parent--this may apply to your child--particularly children interested in art, fairy tales, etc.--this book might "tempt" them!). Also, I think this is a good book to give to one you love as a romantic gesture.

I bought this book for myself, and now I'm buying more copies to give to others, for Christmas. It's THAT good! Don't be confused because it seems to be a "children's" book. It's far more than a cute story... the words and concepts are the sort of thing that inspire great art. If I could create a billboard for this book, it'd be a take-off on that "This is your brain on drugs" series: I'd have a plain sheet of paper on one side, saying, "This is your creativity," and then on the right side, I'd have a picture of the Sistine Chapel, with the caption, "This is your creativity after reading '...Merchant of Marvels...' " ! *grin*Yes, I love this book!

It brings back all the lost innocence, imagination and fascination of childhood. Happiness as pure as the heart of a child, it will bring smile to any withered face, it will soften hearts that have turned into iron and stone. A perfect book for dreamers of all age who still marvel at the wonder and magic of dreams and fairy tales. It soothes my pain and frustration from work and reality, though only for a brief moment, but it gives me the spirit to carry on, to hope for the date when my own merchant of marvel and paddler of dreams will appear and stay.

Imagine Roald dahl writing a dr. suess book, edited by lewis carroll & illustrated by john Tenneil, and you have a pretty good idea of the overall effect of M. Clement's book. This wonderful little gem first came to my attention on a remainder pile, and has captured the imagination of everyone to whom I've shown it. It's also a great book to read to a child, because the fanciful illustrations are so rich in detail. Highly recommended.