Let's go Backer and Backer!: The Pretty Picture

by Maureen Devlin, Nancy D. Conde

Let’s Go Backer and The Pretty Picture takes children on a joyful journey of curiosity and discovery. A young boy proudly creates a beautiful picture for his mom, but where did that picture truly begin? By going “backer and backer,” readers follow the steps behind drawing, from crayons and paper to the origins of the materials themselves. This playful story, inspired by the author’s twin daughters and their endless questions during cozy “book fest” days, celebrates the wonder of creativity and the magic of looking deeper into everyday things.
Benefits for Children

Nurtures creativity and imagination by exploring how art is madeEncourages children to ask questions and think critically about the world around themStrengthens sequencing and cause-and-effect understandingBuilds confidence in self-expression and problem-solvingHow Parents Can Use This Book
Parents can enjoy this story as a fun read-aloud, sparking conversations about creativity and curiosity. After reading, families can explore their own “backer and backer” questions where do paints come from? How is paper made? This interactive approach makes everyday experiences a springboard for learning while strengthening the bond between parent and child.

26 pages, Paperback

Published June 11, 2025

Reviews

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is an absolute gem! It’s so sweet, imaginative, and full of heart. My children are grown now, but reading this brought me right back to those early years, when “why?” and “how?” were the soundtrack of our days. That endless curiosity is beautifully captured here.The book unfolds in a clever, backward journey that begins with a little boy’s finished drawing for his mom. As we go “backer and backer,” we trace the steps of choosing crayons to learning how crayons are made. It’s a brilliant structure that invites kids to think deeply and wonder about the world around them. The repetition makes it a perfect read-aloud, especially for siblings to enjoy together. The illustrations are bright and engaging, echoing the joy of a freshly opened crayon box. Most of all, it highlights creativity, kindness, and the natural curiosity behind every “how” children ask.This is one of those books that lingers long after the last page. I truly believe it deserves a spot on every child’s bookshelf.

[Kate Ziskind · Rating 4 out of 5]

The concept behind “Let’s Go Backer and Backer!: The Pretty Picture” is very cute and not one I’ve seen in a children’s book before; children are constantly asking deeper questions about everyday items, and this addresses that idea in a very simple way. The book also paves the way for children to ask and learn about even more than is in the book- in this case, factories, molds, wax, etc. The use of color in different ways throughout the book was such a creative and fun way to tie in the “pretty picture” theme. “Let’s Go Backer and Backer!: The Pretty Picture” is a bright, unique story that will put a smile on any child’s face.

[Alia]

This story was SO sweet! As a mom to a son who just started pre-school, this was almost a tearjerker. The story definitely provides meaning to the title, and reminds me much of when children start to question "why?" to everything. You can tell when a mom writes a story based on or dedicated to their child(ren,) and this was definitely one of them! From page one of the boy who made the picture for his mom, to the last where the colors are added were all so sweet and sentimental. Definitely going to be a continuous read for me and my son!

[Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

How nice for the boy to have made this pretty picture for his mom! The story takes you on a fun, imaginative journey as we go “backer and backer” to see how it all came to be. The wording is playful and repetitive in a way that kids love, and the illustrations are bright and engaging. It’s a lovely book to read aloud - simple, heartfelt, and full of curiosity. A perfect choice for parents who enjoy stories that celebrate creativity and kindness.

[Nicci Peters · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let's go Backer and Backer!: The Pretty Picture is the fourth book in Devlin's series. The concept of going "backer and backer" is one that all parents and kids can understand. This specific book follows a little boy who has drawn a picture for his mother. Children will enjoy seeing all the steps that it takes to create all the materials needed to produce his piece! The art work is colorful and engaging-a fun story to share with a little one.

[Caterina Parrino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let’s Go Backer and Backer! is a bright, playful picture book that feels like an invitation to slow down and enjoy the journey. The illustrations immediately catch the eye, using color and movement to pull young readers into the story. Devlin and Conde create a rhythm that makes the book fun to read aloud, especially for younger children who love repetition. The message is simple but meaningful, encouraging curiosity and imagination without feeling heavy-handed. It’s the kind of book kids will ask to hear again because it feels comforting and familiar. Parents and educators will appreciate how easily it sparks conversation and creativity.

[Ray Giustini · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book stands out for its charm and warmth rather than flashy storytelling. Let’s Go Backer and Backer! focuses on visual storytelling, letting the pictures do much of the talking. The artwork has a gentle, inviting style that feels cozy and engaging. Instead of rushing through a plot, the book takes its time, allowing children to explore each page. It works well for quiet reading moments or bedtime routines. Overall, it’s a sweet and thoughtful picture book that leaves a lasting, happy impression

[Valentina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The illustrations are bright, colorful, and incredibly charming. I really enjoyed how the story builds from one part to the next, which reminded me a lot of Dr. Seuss who was one of my favorite authors growing up. The book offers great educational value by showing children how something simple is made through a process. It’s a thoughtful and engaging story that helps young readers gain a better understanding of the world around them. I especially loved how learning is woven so naturally into the story.

[Karen Singsheim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for young children. Read it to younger children and help teach a little older child to learn to read. Repetitive words and subject help kids learn quickly. Teaches where things come from. Goes backwards from drawing the picture to how the crayons were made. My grandkids loved the book. By the end of the book they were saying the sentences with me.

[Lily Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet and clever book. The simple question pulls kids in right away, and the idea of going back step by step is really engaging. The illustrations are charming, and the story feels warm and thoughtful without trying too hard. A lovely read that kids will want to revisit.