The Magical Wooden Chair by Judy Haveson

A charmingly sentimental picture book about how the simplest things can sometimes hold the most value

An unassuming wooden chair proves to be full of wonder in this beautifully illustrated children’s book.

Based on a treasured heirloom belonging to the author’s family, the book begins in a shoe store, where a young girl named Bobbie first learns about the special chair. It may not look like much, given that it is older and not as shiny or new as the other chairs in the shop, but it evokes a special feeling when she sits in it.

As the book progresses, the chair is transferred from one family-owned shop to another, spreading its magic along the way, until it ends up with Judy Haveson in her home. Throughout the chair’s journeys to various locations, it witnesses all the key moments in each family’s life, becoming a physical embodiment of their shared experiences.

Haveson has taken a unique approach with the set-up: this book, titled after a magical chair, does not feature magic in the way you might initially think; it cannot fly or transport people to other worlds, it doesn’t talk, and it can’t fix problems. However, what it can do is provide comfort and offer a space to create memories while enjoying day-to-day life.

This type of realistic magic, which focuses on the enchantment of everyday things, promotes a positive outlook and encourages readers to look for the marvels that are all around them. While this may not be a concept younger readers will grasp immediately, it will spark lovely conversations with parents and open kids up to the magic of everyday things.

One thing to note for the target audience (children aged 3–8 years) is the number of deaths in the book. While they are not explicitly discussed and natural causes are implied, it could be a challenging topic if parents aren’t aware of it going in.

Illustrator Natalia Larguier’s images complement the story well, creating a world that is both old-fashioned and inviting. This helps transport readers through time as the chair makes its way through the families’ lives.

Haveson, who is best known for her memoirs about navigating family tragedy and becoming a mom at an older age, has carved out a nice niche for herself with this memoiric children’s story. The Magical Wooden Chair is an unhurried and gentle story that explains the significance of family values and traditions.

This book comes with a lovely message: the things that may seem mundane can come with a ton of value and meaning. The Magical Wooden Chair does a great job of bringing parent and child together talk about customs, personal history, and moving singular memories.