
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels a vague sense of dissatisfaction, loneliness, or that they are missing out on what others have. It's for the child who is very literal and needs help finding value in things they can't see or touch. 'Invisible Things' follows a curious character named Ollie on a quest to find the 'good stuff' in life. With the help of a wise cat, Ollie discovers that the most important things are often invisible: a good mood, a great idea, connection, and even gravity. This visually spectacular book validates a child's inner world, encouraging them to notice and appreciate the unseen forces that shape their experiences. It's a wonderful tool for sparking conversations about feelings, creativity, and the magic of the everyday world.
The book deals with feelings of loneliness and dissatisfaction in a very gentle, metaphorical way. The approach is entirely secular and philosophical. The resolution is hopeful and empowering, as the main character gains a new perspective and learns to appreciate the richness of the world around him.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe ideal reader is a curious, imaginative, or slightly anxious child aged 6 to 8 who sometimes struggles with abstract feelings or feels left out. It is also perfect for a very literal-minded child who would benefit from learning to 'see' and value abstract concepts. Young artists will be especially drawn to the unique, bold graphic style.
This book can be read cold. However, parents should be prepared for questions and discussion. Some concepts like 'a vibe' or 'momentum' are abstract, and a parent can enhance the experience by having simple, real-world examples ready to share with their child. A parent has just heard their child say something like, "It's not fair, everyone else is happier than me," or "I'm bored, there's nothing good here." The child is expressing a vague dissatisfaction with their circumstances and needs help shifting their perspective.
A younger child (age 6) will connect with the more concrete invisible things like 'taste' and 'sound' and will love the colorful, search-and-find quality of the illustrations. An older child (ages 8-9) will be able to grasp the more philosophical ideas like 'possibility' and 'connection,' and may be inspired to name and draw their own 'invisible things.'
Unlike most concept books which focus on tangible subjects (letters, colors), this book brilliantly tackles complex philosophical ideas for a young audience. The signature, vibrant art style of Andy J. Pizza is a huge part of the appeal, turning abstract feelings into a stunning visual feast. It's less a narrative story and more of a guided meditation on wonder.
Ollie, a simple, blob-like character, feels like he is missing out on life's 'good stuff.' He meets a wise cat who guides him on a journey to find it. Along the way, Ollie discovers that the most powerful and wonderful things are actually invisible. The book uses vibrant, abstract illustrations to visualize concepts like taste, energy, connection, ideas, a mood, and momentum, reframing the world as full of unseen magic.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.