Make Believe
On Telling Stories to Children
by Mac Barnett
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Pub Date May 05 2026 | Archive Date Jun 05 2026
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Description
Make Believe is bestselling children’s author Mac Barnett’s incisive, intimate, and timely invitation to approach children’s literature not only as an art form worthy of deep study and criticism, but as a portal into the lives of the children. And at a time when we are faced with a national literacy crisis, he champions the profound joys of literature and the importance of reading for pleasure.
What if children are a great audience for art?
What if they are in fact better equipped to engage deeply with stories than adults?
What if humans’ ability to appreciate art is, if not innate, awakened early in childhood?
Well, then we’d better do our best to make some good kids’ books.
Written with humor and academic rigor, Make Believe reads like a letter from your smartest and funniest friend.
Available Editions
| EDITION | Ebook |
| ISBN | 9780316601139 |
| PRICE | $12.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 112 |
Available on NetGalley
Average rating from 5 members
Featured Reviews
Kim F, Reviewer
Make Believe is a charming and thoughtful exploration of creativity, imagination, and the stories we tell ourselves. Mac Barnett approaches big ideas with simplicity and wonder, making this a book that speaks to both younger readers and the adults sharing it with them.
The narrative encourages curiosity and playful thinking, reminding readers that imagination is not something we outgrow. Warm, clever, and emotionally resonant in its own quiet way, this is a book that invites rereading and conversation. A lovely addition to any collection focused on creativity and storytelling.
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