Touch Think Learn: ABC is much bigger than a standard board book, almost the size of an A4 sheet of paper and as thick as 5 or 6 picture books all stacked up together. But as soon as you open the pages and take a look inside, it becomes apparent why this size has been selected.
Each page is home to two letters of the alphabet and an illustration of something (usually an animal) that begins with that letter. Where it separates itself from the usual ABC board book suspects however, is in the use of die cutouts for each letter, offering curious hands a raised texture to trace and feel. And it gets even better!
The opposite pages offer shaped indents that perfectly align with the die cut out letters, but that are also cleverly integrated into the illustrations. So an A becomes the ridge of an Alligator's back, and S is the slender curve of a Swan's neck.
This design is appealing to both the eye and touch, but the book is also very practically and sturdily constructed. It closes perfectly with die cut outs and indents aligning on each page, while remaining sturdy for toddler handling.
Most illustrations are easily recognisable for a 2-3 year old, and the soft warm colour palette combined with large open spaces means that the letters stand out beautifully and the overall effect of the indents and cut outs are not overwhelmed by too much illustrative detail.
This book would make a stunning gift for 0-3 year old and a gorgeous addition to any home library.
Title: Touch Think Learn: ABC
Author/Illustrator: Xavier Deneux
Publisher: Chronicle Books, $45
Publication Date: 1 September 2016
Format: Board Book
ISBN: 9781452145037
For ages: 1 - 4
Type: Board Book, Picture Book
