The Runaway Beard: A Hairy Tale

As a Bearded-American (don't go disrespectin' my culture), I was of course shocked by this book's cavalier insensitivity to the facially hirsute. But for my sons, IT'S A SCREAM. The tale of a beard that escapes just before it is shaved off is hugely entertaining, mostly because of the wacky illustrations (someone here described them as early Popeye, which seems right). The details are good--see how many ships are pictured throughout the book (ships and beards go together, matey); see the references to Professor Willem; and the "Baby Glop" and "Baby Chow" labels are inspired. You'll also have great fun with the toy beard that comes with the book. No, parents, the Daddy is supposed to have a real one (St. Athanasius: "A man without a beard is an abomination.") so its value is as a hilarious prop for the kid. For those of us who minored in Russian literature, you'll notice the similarities to Gogol's "The Nose," but don't let on because people these days dislike erudition almost as much as they dislike beards (hint: the phenomena are linked).

This is a terrific book. It's very funny and sweet at the same time. My 1-year old doesn't get it yet, but likes the vibrant pictures, and it cracks him up to see me in the beard. I predict it will be a favorite of his for some time....

My kids (ages 8 and 2) and I got a real kick out this book! First the beard escapes off dad's face and is befriended by the kids. Then the beard tries out all sorts of very silly new homes until it finally lands on man's bald head, and they both live happily ever after!

Children will enjoy having this humorous tale read to them about a runaway beard's attempts to find a home. Adults will enjoy the simple, well illustrated storyline, especially while wearing the fake beard that comes with the book. A particulary good choice for anyone who enjoys reading to children.