Coming this fall: a Tragically Hip picture book for kids

Here’s an interesting way to maintain the legacy and brand of the Tragically Hip: a children’s book.

The Tragically Hip ABC (due October 24 from Penguin Random House) is just that: a picture book of the ABC’s designed for the Hip’s youngest fans. Like what? Well, “A” is for “Ahead by a Century,” “N” is for “New Orleans is Sinking,” and “Z” is for “FroZen in My Tracks.” The other 24 letters have their Hip song associations. (I wonder what they did for “X?” I’d go with “Last American EXit,” although there are at least two other candidates.)

The book was illustrated by Clayton Hanmer, Julia Breckenreid, Bridget George, and Monika Melnychuk. Here are some sample pages.

Here’s what The Hip’s Rob Baker has to say: “The promotion of childhood literacy and development are causes close to our collective hearts. This book is a sweet surprise full of gorgeous illustrations. If it can excite some kids about reading, art, nature, or music, then we are delighted and proud.”

Sounds like a cool Christmas gift.