Flying Books and a Really Good Short Film

December 04, 2012

About a month ago, a Library patron told me about a short film that he highly recommended. Then, he wrote out the name of it on a small slip of paper and handed it to me. He said, "Look it up on YouTube. It’s about fifteen minutes long." I looked at the name on the paper, thanked him, and thought to myself, "OK, I’ll see if I remember." But when he added, "I’ve yet to meet a librarian who didn’t cry when they watched it," I was hooked.

The next day I took out the slip of paper, opened YouTube on my computer, typed in The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore, and sat back to watch. I was captivated by the story, the visuals, and the music (there are no spoken words in the entire film).

Without giving too much away, this little film celebrates the printed word and the idea that stories are even more important than books. If you love books, reading, writing, and the importance of a great story, you may find this film to be quite a treasure. Although it’s animated, its appeal is as great for adults as it is for children.

The film won the Academy Award earlier this year for Best Short Film; deservedly so, I think. The book based on the film is available at MCPL and has quickly become a national bestseller. The narrative in the book makes it a unique experience from the film.

So, click on the video link above or request a copy of the book, and prepare to be delighted by The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce and Joe Bluhm.

Lori G.
Colbern Road Branch