Illustory

Illustory is an award-winning activity kit that allows any child to be the author of a professionally typeset, 12-page hardbound book. Budding authors write, illustrate, and design their book, then send it to Chimeric in a postage-paid envelope to be bound and typeset. There's even a step-by-step guide that helps kids decide on the subject, theme, and characters of their story. They can let their imaginations run wild illustrating and writing a story using included markers and special book pages.

Authors are allowed 20 words per page, and can choose between having drawings bound directly into the book, or reproduced onto archival paper, using a laser toner that will not fade. Soon-to-be authors can even decide whether they want Chimeric to edit any spelling errors. A dedication page and brief biography of the author give it a truly professional touch. Once complete, just send everything to Chimeric and a few weeks later--voilà--your book arrives bound and ready to be added to the family archives. Parents can order extra copies (beyond the first, which is included in the purchase price) for an additional charge, which make thoughtful gifts for friends and relatives.

Capture a memory. Whether it's a dance recital, a family trip, a birthday, or a family reunion, kids will love re-living the event in a book you can make together and publish. For some kids, providing a series of photographs is all that's needed to spark their retelling. First, have them put the photos in order; this involves sequencing and recall. For other kids, making a "real" book with their original drawings will be more appealing.