kellymc03's review against another edition
4.0
I could relate to this book since we moved and kids had to adjust and make new friends. I also liked the illustrations.
shighley's review against another edition
5.0
Great story, great illustrations. How fitting that as we celebrate the 50th year of Phantom Toolbooth, we have another great story from Juster. A student weary of being the new guy finds an innovative way to become part of the neighborhood.
I liked the way that as the story started, the illustrations were somewhat bleak and simple, and as Nevile became more involved with others, the pictures changed to "technicolor", almost as the transformation in the "Wizard of Oz". This is a very clever, yet simple idea. (And I wonder how Juster envisions Neville telling the others his real name!)
Interesting that wikipedia doesn't list this book on his profile as yet!
I liked the way that as the story started, the illustrations were somewhat bleak and simple, and as Nevile became more involved with others, the pictures changed to "technicolor", almost as the transformation in the "Wizard of Oz". This is a very clever, yet simple idea. (And I wonder how Juster envisions Neville telling the others his real name!)
Interesting that wikipedia doesn't list this book on his profile as yet!
alysona's review against another edition
5.0
What a clever take on the adjusting to moving story. Love the anonymous looking neighborhood but distinctive looking kids. Read this at storytime and lots of kids will be yelling "Neville!"
libraryannemckernan's review against another edition
5.0
What a delightful surprise! Loved this sweet story of the new boy in town and his creative way to make some new friends. Great read aloud, great for story time.
jessalynn_librarian's review against another edition
4.0
I picked this one up after it made Calling Caldecott's mock ballot list, and I'm glad I did. It's one of those stories where the text tells the story but the illustrations convey the mood. There's a fun reveal at the end for readers who miss the clues. I for one was coming up with all kinds of more outrageous explanations for why the boy was shouting "Neville!" and of course had to read it through again once I got to the end.
Plus, a second read makes you notice the details in the illustrations that tell the story in their own way. On the first page, the boy and his belongings are in color while the houses an street are sepia-toned. As soon as the other boy joins him on the corner, the grass becomes greener, and by the time all the kids are gathered around the colors are bright and vivid. As they head home, all the houses have gained personality and color. It's a subtle but effective technique.
Plus, a second read makes you notice the details in the illustrations that tell the story in their own way. On the first page, the boy and his belongings are in color while the houses an street are sepia-toned. As soon as the other boy joins him on the corner, the grass becomes greener, and by the time all the kids are gathered around the colors are bright and vivid. As they head home, all the houses have gained personality and color. It's a subtle but effective technique.
rgibson6's review against another edition
4.0
You never know in what situation you can make new friends. I wish it were still this easy as an adult. Always keep an open mind!
bgid's review against another edition
4.0
Great story about moving and all of it's insecurities. Wonderfully illustrated by G. Brian Karas, absolutely loved, loved the illustrations!!!
maidmarianlib's review
4.0
Delightful with a good message like how the text sometimes integrates with the pictures.
annieliz's review against another edition
4.0
Can't believe I went so long without this book. A nice story about moving.