The TTLG 2011 Picture Book Celebration: Book One hundred and eighteen

There are certain authors and illustrators who are favorites of mine. When I see one of their books in a shop or in a publisher's catalogue, I do my best to get a copy. One of these people is Quentin Blake. Blake is well known for illustrating the books written by Roald Dahl, but he has also written many books of his own including Mr. Magnolia and today's picture book.

Angelo

Quentin Blake

Picture Book

For ages 4 to 6

Random House UK, 2010, 978-1-849-41046-5

   Long ago a boy called Angelo lived in Italy with his mother, father, and three brothers. The family travelled around the country, all their worldly possessions in a covered cart. When they got to a village, Angelo’s father and his big brothers would build a stage, and when everything was ready, the family members would put on a show. Angelo’s big brothers would do “marvelous balancing tricks,” his father would play the guitar and sing, and then Angelo would do very popular his tight rope act.

   One day Angelo saw that one of the people watching him perform was not smiling “like everyone else.” Instead, the girl looking out of a second floor window was crying. The girl, Angelina, explained that she wished so much that she could travel around the country like Angelo did. She had a miserable life living with her cruel uncle. She was sure that she would be trapped in her uncle’s home “for ever.” Luckily for Angelina, Angelo has an idea.

   In this charming picture book, Britain’s first Children’s Laureate gives readers a tale that is entertaining and heart warming. With its feel-good happy ending and its wonderful illustrations, this is a picture book Quentin Blake fans will want to add to their collection.