From its whimsical illustrations and retro feel to its quirky character and tone, Marshall Armstrong is New to Our School is one of those books you file under K. K for Keeper.
When Marshall Armstrong joins our narrator's school, it's made clear he looks different. His things are different. His ear looks like a shell. His laces are straight, not criss-crossed. His eyes are always looking to the front of the class.
Yes, he is different. And this makes our narrator a little uncomfortable. In fact, our narrator takes great pains to make it clear that Marshall Armstrong just does NOT fit in.
That is - until the entire class is invited to his birthday party . . . at his totally cool house, with totally cool things abounding.
Surprise surprise.
I love the language used in this book. I love the colours. I love the graphics, the design, layout and crayon-like lines scooting around, up and down. I love the sophisticated take author/illustrator Mackintosh has made on his childlike prose and imagery - and I love the subtle messaging about how we should not judge a book by its cover.
And of course - how wonderful it is to be different.
Title: Marshall Armstrong is New to Our School
Author/Illustrator: David Mackintosh
Publisher: HarperCollins $24.99 RRP
Publication date: March 2011
Format: Hard cover with dust jacket
ISBN: 9780007361410
For ages: 3 - 12
Type: Picture Book
