Boog's Books: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

In this case, I think it is more of a "Mamma's Books" post, because it's really me that is obsessed with Chicka Chicka Boom Boom. It was the first book I ever read on my own, and I also remember vividly my mother reading it to me over and over again. I knew I needed to get a copy, so the last time I was at Children's Book World (if you are in LA, GO THERE NOW!) I picked up an over-sized board book version.

Let me get out of the way that this is the original, unadulterated Chicka Chicka Boom Boom. I guess that now there are songs and toys and alternate versions of the book, and they might be amazing. But I am too nostalgic for this particular version to purchase anything different for my child.

My husband does not get why I love this book so much. "It's just an alphabet book," he says. I am choosing to remain blind to that statement so I can remain in love with him (just kidding, love!). But what has always appealed to me about Chicka Chicka Boom Boom is the rhythm. Something about it is so addictive and lulling. I still love reading it or reciting it to my son, and on nights when my husband isn't home in time for bedtime we usually read this one (or Goodnight Moon, which also has a rhythm I love).

The boog seems to like it just fine, although I think the real appeal for him is the fact that the board book is big enough for him to hold and turn the pages (and too big for him to eat, which is what he mostly likes to do with books).

Also, unrelated cute book story: whenever we go to the pediatrician, they give us a board book and encourage me to read to my baby (they have no idea). This most recent time, the pediatrician passed the book to me and Boog started kicking his legs, grinning, and shrieking with excitement. Yes, that is my son. :)

By way of introduction...

Once upon a time, I fell in love with reading. That time was so long ago I can't even remember when it really began, although I am pretty sure the first book I ever read was Chicka Chicka Boom Boom. Ever since then, I have always loved to read. I read when I brush my teeth and blow dry my hair. I read when I walk to class (which can be dangerous). I rarely read sitting in a comfortable chair, completely lost in an adventure, because as a college student and bride-to-be, who has time for that? However, despite my busy schedule, reading has never been something I could bear to cut out.

When I was younger, I wanted to be a writer, because that was the career most connected with books. My inability to finish a story or come up with anything very original killed that dream. I applied for a job in a library once and majored in English for a semester, but neither situation worked out in the long run. For a long time, I thought reading would just be something I enjoyed for myself, a private pastime shared only in occasional book club meetings.

However, the other day as I was procrastinating other pressing tasks, an idea hit me - why not share some of those ideas about books constantly swimming in my head in a blog? I love to think about books, talk about books, and more than anything recommend books. Almost every gift I give is a book, and other than the essentials of life, I spend more money on books than anything else. As I moved my books to the apartment I will begin sharing with my husband-to-be in a few weeks, he could only shake his head as the boxes kept on coming.

So, here is my new venue for recommending books. My plan is to review at least one book a week. I will read almost anything I can get my hands on and love every style, from the newest novel to self-help books to long-standing literary classics. The style of books reviewed on this site will probably be eclectic, but I hope you enjoy them. Happy reading!

Love,
The Story Girl