I Got This for You, but It’s Also for Me.

Almost Everything
Written & Illustrated by Joelle Jolivet
Age Level: 0-6 Years
Published October 3, 2005

This big book makes a huge impression.

My friend Gitta is way cooler than I am. Honestly, I have no idea why she’s friends with me. She’s German, an architect, and an artist, so in addition to her very cool European vibe, she also has an impeccable eye for design. Unsurprisingly, she has curated her children’s books and toys to perfection, and it was at her home that I first discovered the monumental (literally, the book is 18 inches tall!) gem that is Almost Everything.

This book immediately caught my attention, and not just because it’s impossible to miss with it’s bright blue cover and oversize dimensions. French illustrator Joelle Jolivet’s brightly colored, boldly outlined illustrations are incredibly appealing. This book is essentially a picture encyclopedia for young children, which makes it perfect for building vocabulary and broadening knowledge on popular topics of interest. Each 2-page spread is dedicated to a particular category such as Trees & Flowers, Musical Instruments, The Human Body, and filled corner to corner with helpfully labeled, beautifully drawn illustrations. For especially curious readers, there is an outstanding appendix in the back that gives 1-2 facts about every single thing in the book.

“Sunflower: It can grow up to 9 feet high and its head turns in the course of the day, following the path of the sun.”

Beloved in our house, this book has been displayed on the coffee table or faced out on our shelves since the moment we got it. If you’re looking for a show stopping present that will dazzle children (and parents) of all ages and interests, this is utterly perfect. And if you need more recommendations, I’ll put you in touch with Gitta. She finds all the best stuff.