Since the beginning of time, our species has been threatened by various viruses which spread very fast and immediately transformed into pandemics. Disease and illnesses increased dramatically as our society evolved. The more humans became civilized the more pandemics occurred such as malaria, tuberculosis, leprosy, influenza, smallpox, and others. Each of them is responsible for millions of deaths worldwide and as statistics show, COVID-19 doesn’t sit back.
However, there is a slight difference between the current epidemic and the others in history. Thanks to technological development, we have media by our side and, thanks to it, we are updated with valuable information about what we need to do in order to stop the spread. One of the measures taken by most governments in the world is to stay home. It’s been almost two weeks since most of us are in self-isolation. Yet again, we need to mention the fact that thanks to tech evolution we can easily overcome the boredom that comes along with the isolation.
Fortunately, we have technology. But what about our ancestors who didn’t have this during times of pandemic? Well, we’ll assume that they read a lot. And, hey, don’t sit too comfortably, because we don’t know if future generations — who will probably also face a pandemic — will enjoy the benefits of technology. So, no matter when the next pandemic will erupt, one thing is for sure: books will certainly be there to help you fight boredom. Because reading and books are the only things that won’t die anytime soon.
Speaking of books, do you know what else is as valuable in isolation? Coloring books! They are a great tool to enhance your creativity and also a good way to overcome boredom. What is greater than this is that they are awesome for both adults and kids. Also, they are the glue in teamwork, as they bring along parents and children.
With this in mind, freelance creative directors Brian Siedband and Gordy Sang and illustrator Larry Day introduced the world to a new coloring book: “Q is For Quarantine: The ABCs of the Coronavirus.” The publication is free and can be downloaded at www.abcsofcoronavirus.com. The book was born out of the creative directors’ desire to find a smart way to keep their little ones entertained during the lockdown.
“Normally during times like this — although there’s never literally been a time like this — we’d have sports to distract us, or SNL to make light of what we’re going through. But we don’t have those, so we thought maybe this could provide a short relief from the Black Mirror episode we’re living in,” says Gordy Sang.
“We wanted it to be something kids found goofy and fun, but also have a little edge to it so adults could enjoy it too. Plus, since our kids are asking us questions about all the weird stuff happening around us, we thought it could be slightly informative for them,” adds Brian Siedband.
The book is a gift to those who have the luxury of staying safe home, while the healthcare workers expose themselves to this unseen enemy just to keep us safe. Yet, the creatives didn’t forget them: Every download that takes place on the page leads users to a simple request: to please consider donating to Direct Relief’s Coronavirus Fund, which provides protective equipment like masks and gloves to doctors and their staff.
We gave it a shot and colored one of the illustrations. We chose the “G” letter, as it underlines the fact that gatherings of more than 10 people are forbidden. We miss each other, even though we virtually keep in touch every day. So, check our work out. Yeah, we did it on Paint but we highly recommend you to please use crayons. This way, your work will look better than ours. Actually, we dare you to please share the illustrations you got: both yours and the ones of your kids.
Credits: