A few weeks ago, while house-sitting in DUMBO, I found this charming illustrated book for adults sitting atop a large stack of novels. “The Long Chalkboard” is a trio of delightful and witty stories written by journalist and stand-up comedienne Jenny Allen and illustrated by her husband Jules Feiffer, renowned cartoonist and children’s book author. The first story, “The Long Chalkboard,” is about the life and times of people who encounter this almost magical long chalkboard and the role the chalkboard plays in each person’s journey. “What Happened” is the second story, and it’s about two children’s book authors with similar works who, at first, are at odds with one another but then find themselves growing close. And “Judy’s Wonder Chili” is the third book in the trio, which concerns a fabulous chili recipe that has healing powers but eventually wreaks havoc on Judy’s life when it gains media attention.
Have you read it? I’d recommend it if you’re looking for a short and sweet read, something perfect to read over coffee on a lazy weekend morning.