David Almond's "Skellig" hooked me, and it continues to be a treat to read any story written by this wonderful author. His books are always stories that show beautiful "what ifs" and always a little something extra to ponder. This "Tale of Angelino Brown" begins with Bert the city bus driver who finds a tiny angel in his pocket, Yes! an angel. His wife Betty, the school cook, is thrilled, does not seem surprised at all, but very pleased to have a new child to care for. It appears that there was another, dear Paul, now only a picture and a memory. There is also Nancy and Jack and Alice from Class 5K at their school which is now in the state of being inspected, so Acting Head Teacher Mrs Mole is not so sure about this tiny angel, now named Angelino by Betty. Professor Smellie is also skeptical. Also, there's the mysterious bloke in black who claims to be a School Inspector. Then there’s Basher Malone – big, lumbering Basher Malone. He REALLY doesn’t like Angelino. And it looks like he’s out to get him... It's a dangerous situation that changes self-perceptions, perhaps of readers, too? The whimsical illustrations by Alex Smith delight the imagination. David Almond makes it possible to believe that an angel might just appear in one's pocket, especially when he's needed. Thanks to Candlewick Press for the advanced copy!
And thanks to Candlewick Press for the following picture book, just out this past week!
On the subway home with his abuela, sweet Julian notices three very dressed up, classy ladies. He loves them, wants to "be" them, and creates a way at home for his own outfit: a periwinkle curtain for his tail, the fronds of a potted fern for his headdress. What will Abuela think of the grab of the curtain and parts of the plant? Tension mounts as there is another question: What will she think when she sees "how" Julian wants to "be". It's a short and sweet exactly-right celebration of respect for individual choices written and illustrated by Jessica Love. Along with the words, her illustrations are bright and happy.