The Ordinary Life of Jacominus Gainsborough

The Ordinary Life of Jacominus Gainsborough is a unique book. After reading the story, I felt calm and contemplative, which is a remarkable feat to read a book that can alter your emotional state. The illustrations were deeply detailed. The story features anthropomorphic animals as characters, which not only leads to engaging illustrations for young readers but also makes the story universal, allowing us all to see ourselves in the story of a life.
The author gave tiny, detailed information throughout, like the father pouting or the mother being glum, which emphasizes that in all life there are ups and downs, and we all have our character strengths and flaws. The author didn’t shy away from featuring the end of Jacominus' life, along with the math of events that added up to who he was. If by that point you are in a reflective state, you notice that in life’s math, the small ordinary parts are in the millions and the bad things may only be in the tens or single digits, which helps us all to remember that most of our life or day is not made up of bad things, and we should keep that in mind.
I am not sure who the best audience is for this book. It is marketed for children, but I am certain that if you come back to this book at different stages of your life, you will have different experiences upon reading it. Therefore, this deeply philosophical book is for all of us and for many readings. I said this book was unique, and the only thing I can think of that gives similar vibes of wistful, whimsical, expansive, and philosophical, even though the plots are quite different, are The Velveteen Rabbit and the movie, The Curious Life of Benjamin Button.

THE ORDINARY LIFE OF JACOMINUS GAINSBOROUGH is a lovely reflection on life. The story is told as a reflection on experiences, joys, and sorrows that one gains through a life well-lived. Jacominus is a rabbit who has experienced a great deal - and learned a great deal of languages, and his reflections speak to the reader, encouraging them to find the joy in their own lives.

What I loved: This is an absolutely stunning book - the illustrations are breathtaking and gorgeous. They capture the life Jacominus has lived and the sentiment and atmosphere of the story perfectly. The writing is quite lyrical and philosophical, and it evokes all manner of emotions in the reader. Mostly, it inspires a thirst for life lived fully.

While this is a picture book, it is one that will speak to readers of all ages. Due to the topics and the meanings behind the story, this may work best for readers who are a bit older, maybe 7 years and up. It is quite a thought-provoking story, and the emotions it raises are beautifully done. I highly recommend experiencing this one for yourself.

Final verdict: With stunning illustrations and flowing prose, THE ORDINARY LIFE OF JACOMINUS GAINSBOROUGH is an unforgettable picture book that reminds the reader to celebrate the beauty of life itself.