In Are You Bored?, the narrator speaks directly to the child and guides them through a variety of simple ideas to try when boredom shows up - but none of them quite solve the problem. They help a little, but they’re not enough.
And that’s when the book reveals the real books. Reading becomes the gateway to unlimited possibilities - a way to travel anywhere, become anyone, and explore worlds where everything is possible.
For every child who has ever felt boredom slowly creeping in - at home, at school, on a long afternoon, or on holiday - this book is a gentle invitation to open a story and step into a world where curiosity wakes up, imagination takes over, and boredom quietly disappears.
Are You Bored? by Monika Marzec is a delightful children's book that transforms the all-too-familiar feeling of boredom into an imaginative adventure. Through vibrant illustrations and a playful narrative, the story encourages young readers to explore their creativity and find joy in the simple moments. Monika's unique artistic style adds a magical touch, making each page a visual treat. This book is a wonderful resource for parents and educators looking to inspire children to think outside the box and embrace their imagination.
A lifesaver for rainy afternoons As a mom of two energetic kids, I’m constantly on the lookout for books that entertain while gently teaching a lesson. Are You Bored? hit the mark. The illustrations are bold and colorful, keeping my 4-year-old engaged, while the storyline resonated with my 7-year-old, who often declares with great drama that “nothing is fun!” This book doesn’t just distract; in fact, it opens a door. After reading it together, both my kids wanted to draw, imagine, and, yes… read more books! I especially appreciate how it subtly promotes imagination and a love for stories without feeling preachy. It’s now one of our go-to bedtime reads, and I even caught my daughter retelling it to her stuffed animals. If you’re tired of hearing “I’m bored” on repeat, this charming story might be the magic you need. Highly recommended for families and classrooms alike. It is a must read.
Are You Bored? by Monika Marzec is a delightful and thoughtful book that truly suprised me. What I like most is the way the book encourages children to use their imagination. Instead of presenting boredom as a negative feeling, the story shows how it can lead to discovery, play, and new ideas. It's a great reminder for both kids and adults that sometimes the best adventures begin when we think we have 'nothing to do'. Monika Marzec does a wonderful job as both the author and illustrator.
A wonderful story to explore why we can sometimes feel bored and what we can do about it. The illustrations are beautifully colourful, and we loved reading it with my little one. I highly recommend!
Are You Bored? by Monika Marzec is a lighthearted recommendation story with whimsical illustrations. This story encourages the reader to initiate independent play with the use of critical thinking and creativity. It's a must read for parents and kids alike when the strand of boredom attempts to arise.
Are You Bored? By Monika Marzec, is an awesome book encouraging children to love reading books! It keeps you engaged until the end. I would recommend it to all kids to read!
Are You Bored? is a delightful and heartwarming book that captures the magic of childhood imagination. It tells the story of children who feel bored—something every young reader can relate to—but instead of staying stuck in their boredom, they discover the endless possibilities that come from creativity and curiosity.
The writing is simple and engaging, perfect for young readers, and the illustrations are colorful and full of charm. The book encourages kids to see boredom not as a problem, but as an opportunity to explore books. It's a wonderful message for both children and parents in today's fast-paced, screen-filled world.
This book is not only fun to read but also inspiring. It reminds us that sometimes the best adventures begin with a little bit of boredom. I highly recommend ,,Are You Bored?" to families, teachers, and anyone who believes in the power of imagination.
This book captures the phrase every parent knows too well: “I’m bored!” With vibrant illustrations and a sprinkle of humor, it shows kids how imagination (and books!) can turn boredom into an adventure. A funny, cozy read-aloud we’ll definitely come back to.
"Are You Bored?" by Monika Marzec is such a delightful gem of a book! My kids were immediately drawn in by the bright, playful illustrations and the fun, imaginative story. The author does a fantastic job of capturing young readers' attention with an engaging, easy-to-follow storyline that sparks curiosity and creativity. I especially love how the book gently encourages kids to use their imaginations and discover the magic of reading as a way to explore new worlds and go on adventures.
As a mom of two beginner readers, I can’t tell you how refreshing it is to find a book that’s both fun and accessible. My kids were giggling and pointing out details on every page, completely immersed in the story. They even asked to read it again the next night which is always a good sign! Monika Marzec really nailed it with this one. It’s the perfect combination of colorful, engaging, and just the right amount of challenge for early readers. We absolutely loved it!
boredom isn't the enemy, it's an invitation to get curious, get creative, and dive into your imagination! With laugh-out-loud moments, it perfectly captures the universal "I'm bored" blues that kids (and their grown-ups) know all too well. I especially appreciated the thoughtful insight into what sparks boredom in the first place. It"'s such a smart way to help children understand and navigate their feelings. The playful, vibrant illustrations burst with energy and imagination, making each page feel like an adventure. And the ending? A brilliant twist that celebrates the magic of books themselves. Whimsical, wise, and wonderfully relatable-this book is a total gem!
Everybody gets bored sometimes. It happens to both adults and children. When it happens to the latter, though, it can be particularly insidious. A bored child can get up to mischief, or they can whine and pout until they drive their parents crazy. However, there’s always a solution to the problem of a bored child if they use the powerful weapon that is their imagination. This is a book that embraces that concept. In it, a trio of adorable kids learn what causes boredom and what they can do about it. Young children who are experiencing this same issue may very well find a solution to their malaise within these pages.
Are You Bored, by Monika Marzec, is a children’s book aimed at a young audience. The most likely group that will enjoy it are those aged 3-8. It is somewhat reminiscent of classics like The Cat in the Hat and Harold and the Purple Crayon.
This is a relatively short book, as is fitting for a younger crowd. A child learning to read can probably tackle it on their own, but it’s also easy to envision a parent reading it aloud. There are also delightful, evocative illustrations on each page.
We’re living in a time when, more than ever before, a parent might feel inclined to plunk a bored child down in front of the TV for an hour or to hand them a cell phone so they can play a game on it. While there are some undeniable benefits to that approach, it’s also a great idea to teach kids to use their imaginations, as Marzec urges. If a child learns to harness their imagination, they won’t need a screen to keep them entertained. Also, a young person who is imaginative is much more inclined to be able to think analytically. That is a skill that should serve them well throughout their lives.
Helped out by the colorful illustrations, this book teaches an excellent lesson and should become a favorite for kids who are either bored or want to spend some quality reading time alone or with their parents.
"Are You Bored?" is delightfully direct and engaging. The colorful illustrations and text combine to reflect the bane of children and parents everywhere -- the gnawing feeling of "boredom" and not quite knowing how to remedy it. To the author's great credit, she doesn't "pull punches" or sugarcoat pie-in-the-sky platitudes. Rather, she "speaks" to children directly in their own language, anticipating and answering in advance all "objections" to commonly suggested fixes for boredom.
Addressing common solutions one by one, the reader is increasingly drawn into guessing "what will she suggest as the 'answer' to boredom?" In the book's climax, she answers the question with characteristic passion and directness. While not every child will be convinced of the answer (nothing is ever a perfect solution for all cases, is it?), the author makes a wonderful and compelling case for her answer (spoiler alert: the answer is "reading"). Her "voice" was refreshing and authentic throughout -- a true breath of fresh air. Very nicely done!!
Are you Bored? Well this book and it's creative and imaginative concept may well just fix that! While contemplating all the possible causes of boredom in a lighthearted and amusing way, Monika Marzec's new original take on the trouble with finding something to do delights in illustrating solutions to any child's exasperation.
I love Monika's fun and engaging illustrative style, light seems to shine from the pages. Without giving any spoilers, the book is also a visual journey through the aspects of boredom, every slumping child conveyed admirably through to a joyful payoff at the end of the book.
What really impressed me though is that Monika has not only written a book about boredom, she's also provided the solution in the form of a 60 page activity book that accompanies the story. Be sure to get hold of that one too and your child will certainly have something fun and worthwhile to do!
I highly recommend it Are You Bored? reminded me of the books I treasured as a child, simple stories with meaningful impact. As a grown-up who still believes in the power of imagination, I found myself surprisingly moved by this little book. Marzec’s storytelling captures the very essence of childhood boredom and gently guides readers toward a brighter, more playful world. The prose is light, rhythmic, and charming, and the art is vibrant and expressive. I gifted this book to my goddaughter, and she now insists on reading it before bedtime. What’s more, it led to a wonderful conversation about how boredom isn’t bad, it’s just a moment before the magic starts. There’s something nostalgic about this book, as if it knows the child in each of us who once stared out the window waiting for something to begin. I highly recommend it for families, educators, and anyone who believes stories still hold real power.
This book is pure magic in 32 pages! I got Are You Bored? for my niece, and the moment we finished reading, she said, “Let’s read it again!” It’s full of color, clever lines, and a wonderful twist that turns boredom into an invitation to imagine. The narrator’s voice feels like a funny, thoughtful friend, and the illustrations are bursting with charm. It reminds me a bit of The Book with No Pictures, being silly and smart at the same time. I also love that it doesn’t shame boredom but in fact it acknowledges it, then transforms it into something joyful. This book helped my niece see her quiet afternoons differently, and we even made up our own stories afterward. It’s not just a picture book, it is more, it’s a spark. Highly recommended for kids who need a nudge into their imagination and adults who want to join them there.
Are You Bored? by Monika Marzec is a charming picture book perfect for preschoolers and early readers. From the very first page, its vibrant, whimsical illustrations spark the imagination, sure to captivate both children and the adults reading along. But this book offers more than just visual delight. It gently encourages young readers to explore a feeling they all know well: boredom. Are you tired? Lazy? Uninterested? The story unfolds into a lighthearted yet thoughtful journey into creativity, curiosity, and the joy of storytelling.
At its core, Are You Bored? is a celebration of imagination. It invites children to see boredom not as a problem, but as a gateway to discovery. Clever, uplifting, and quietly profound, this is a book that leaves readers of all ages smiling and inspired.
Monika Marzec's Are You Bored? is a delightful picture book that tackles that all-too-familiar problem kids can have, transforming it into an imaginative adventure. The book opens with the universal sentiment of "Nothing is fun. Nothing is exciting. Everything is boring," immediately resonating with both young readers and their oft-exasperated parents. Marzec then skillfully guides them toward the surprising magic found within the pages of a book. With its gorgeous illustrations and engaging narrative, the story explores boredom not as a problem, but as a springboard for creativity and imagination. Are You Bored? promises to be a charming addition to any child's bookshelf, turning a common everyday struggle into a source of fun and discovery. It's a sweet reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures begin simply by opening a book.
Are You Bored? is hilarious, clever, and exactly what every parent needs when faced with the dreaded phrase. My 5-year-old son loved the expressive artwork and the way the story talks directly to the reader. It feels like the book is having a conversation with your kid and winning. The turning point where imagination kicks in was his favorite part, and I loved how the story encourages creativity without forcing it. It’s sneaky in the best way: fun on the surface, but with a brilliant message underneath. Since reading it, he’s asked to build forts, draw space adventures, and of course, read this book again. If you’re trying to limit screen time and encourage thinking, this is the book you want in your arsenal. Five stars for being fun, engaging, and totally re-readable. We’re hooked!
This is such a cute and clever story that will teach children that there are always plenty of creative things to do when you're bored; you just have to use your imagination. I love the humor in it when the narrator suggests certain ideas that end up being not-so-fun, which a lot of kids (and parents!) can relate to. I also like how the author describes what causes boredom in the first place, which makes it easier to tackle when you know the "why" behind it. The bright and whimsical illustrations will draw children right into the story and keep them engaged throughout it. It was such a clever idea when the narrator made the connection at the end between reading books and entertainment/learning, such as this one. Highly recommend!
This book is visually delightful and offers a clever concept: boredom as a gateway to creativity. I read it aloud to my first-grade class, and they were engaged from the first page. The pacing is great, and the humor appeals to kids and adults. I loved the message about using books and imagination to fill quiet time, which sparked a nice discussion in class. However, I felt the story could have pushed a bit further into specific creative suggestions. A few more concrete ideas might have helped the message land better with younger or more literal-minded children. That said, the students still really enjoyed it, and several asked to take it home. As a teacher, I appreciate books that open a conversation, and this one definitely does that. A strong addition to a classroom library.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. As a former schoolteacher and elementary principal, I always discouraged the use of the word "bored." Monika Marzec beautifully conveys—through charming illustrations and gentle humor—that boredom is nearly impossible when curiosity is nurtured. With an active mind and a love for books, children can always find something engaging and meaningful to explore. This book delivers a powerful and inspiring message: the world opens up to young readers who discover the joy of reading.
As a teacher and parent, I have heard “I’m so bored” countless times. This creative story is a fun way to encourage kids to think critically and come up with their own solutions. Cute illustrations and playful wordplay make it a laugh-out-loud read. Kids are encouraged to play outside, get creative with toys or art, or even turn a cardboard box into a magical character. The final suggestion is brilliant and sure to inspire imagination. A fun, engaging book that reminds kids not to take themselves too seriously.
This book directly speaks to the reader in a playful tone, offering clear and actionable suggestions to cope with boredom. If you love children's books about coping skills, this light hearted, high-spirited book may be a fun-loving addition to your shelf. The illustrations are vibrant, colorful, and eye-catching. Best part? The final suggestion is to read a book!
Thank you to author/illustrator Monika Marzec for sending me a free electronic copy of this book. I chose to review it here.
A fun and engaging story that tackles the familiar feeling of boredom! This delightful book offers clever ideas to keep boredom away—like tidying your room, playing with friends, or getting creative. But the best idea of all is a simple, fun, and effective suggestion that every child will love. Can you guess what it is? Read the book to find out!
Are You Bored is anything but boring! This book is full of lively and fun illustrations, engaging text, and humor woven though that will keep young readers engaged and feeling seen! Parents: here is your answer to the compliant: I’m bored! Fun, clever ideas abound, and the author speaks to the reader in a conversational tone. Enjoy!
“Are you Bored?” Is a great picture book by Monika Marzec. I enjoyed the illustrations on each page as well as the cover that grabs young readers attention.
From the question from the title, there are answers and the best answer is the ending- no spoilers here. I highly recommend this amazing picture book.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4.25-4.5 Stars 5 Stars-story 4 Stars-illustrations This work is an amusing children's book that conveys the age-old question (book title) offers insightful explanations and suggestions to a kid's boredom. Not only does the author give reasons why a kid may be bored, but she gives ideas on how to overcome it. A great gift idea to kids or parents (and teachers and librarians).
This is a gentle and positive book about boredom and imagination. I really liked the message that reading can open so many possibilities for children. My daughter enjoyed the interactive tone and the ideas throughout the story.