Wreck This Journal, created by Keri Smith and published in 2007 by Penguin Group subsidiary Perigee, takes adventure to a whole new level. The book does not have a story or text and is instead filled with pages that suggest various missions to push perfectionists out of their boundaries.
The interactive book tells readers to live life without worrying about perfection. Instructions on each page ask readers to place sticky things on the pager, rub the pages with dirt, and even drum on the book with pencils. Smith encourages risk-taking by giving physical missions like giving a page away, swinging the book wildly and turning a page into a shoe.
Readers will be pulled to book’s charming nature, which creates a hands-on environment that triggers creativity. Each page is more interesting than the previous one, leading readers to embrace their inner spirit of adventure.
Like a standard journal, Smith’s book acts as a space to jot down creative ideas, keep secrets and hold memories. Yet because this book is more of an experience than a read, it can become a keepsake for readers to look back on and share with friends.
In the book’s opening warning, Smith states its goal: “You may begin to live more recklessly.” Wreck This Journal accomplishes her goal without disappointment by encouraging readers to live life fully with newfound confidence.
Readers that enjoy Wreck This Journal might also enjoy Finish This Book and How to Be An Explorer of the World, also by Smith and published by Perigee. Fans of the book may also be interested in Wreck This App, available on iOS, Android or Nook mobile devices.
Visit Youtube for more fan-made Wreck This Journal videos.
