Some books just don't grab the reader. They don't have brightly colored covers. They don't flash or glitter. There are no licensed characters or movie star names plastered across the front. But inside...something magical exists. If only the book could get the reader to open it up and enjoy it.

The Black Book of Colors by Menena Cottin and Rosana Faria

This amazing children's picture book tries to convey what it is like to be blind. The book jacket states "Raised black line drawings on black paper, which can be deciphered by touch, accompany a beautifully written text describing colors through imagery." The text is also translated into braille on each page.

Tips to enjoy this book with your family
I sat down and read the book's words and looked at the pictures. The first time through, I was so impressed by the concept of the book, that I didn't stop to enjoy the tactile dimension at all. When I read the book with my daughter,  I couldn't get her to look at the plain black pages, even for a few seconds, although I did rub her fingers across the illustrations on each page. When I introduced my husband to the book, I had him keep his eyes shut and touch the illustrations while I read him the accompanying text. Each experience was different and we each found our own ways to enjoy the book individually and together.

 Have you discovered other picture books that require some extra effort to enjoy with your family? What books do you recommend?