by Trudy Ludwig, Patrice Barton (Illustrator)
Meet Brian, the invisible boy. Nobody ever seems to notice him or think to include him in their group, game, or birthday party . . . until, that is, a new kid comes to class.
When Justin, the new boy, arrives, Brian is the first to make him feel welcome. And when Brian and Justin team up to work on a class project together, Brian finds a way to shine.
From esteemed author and speaker Trudy Ludwig and acclaimed illustrator Patrice Barton, this gentle story shows how small acts of kindness can help children feel included and allow them to flourish. Any parent, teacher, or counselor looking for material that sensitively addresses the needs of quieter children will find The Invisible Boy a valuable and important resource.
Includes backmatter with discussion questions and resources for further reading.
Publishers Weekly
08/26/2013
“Can you see Brian, the invisible boy?” Ludwig (Better Than You) asks readers. Brian’s classmates seem to see right through him when it comes to the lunchroom, playground, or birthday parties. Even Brian’s teacher is too busy with the kids who “take up a lot of space.” A new kid named Justin notices Brian’s kindness and drawing talent, and he matter-of-factly changes the paradigm (“Mrs. Carlotti said we can have up to three people in our group,” Justin tells a classmate who wants to exclude Brian). Gradually, Brian—whom Barton (I Like Old Clothes) has heretofore depicted in b&w pencil with sad, vulnerable eyes—becomes a smiling, full-color character. Ludwig and Barton understand classroom dynamics (Barton is especially good at portraying how children gauge the attitude of their peers and act accordingly) and wisely refrain from lecturing readers or turning Justin into Brian’s savior. Instead, they portray Brian’s situation as a matter of groupthink that can be rebooted through small steps. It’s a smart strategy, one that can be leveraged through the book’s excellent discussion guide. Ages 6–9. Illustrator’s agent: Christina A. Tugeau, CATugeau. (Oct.)
Product Details
ISBN-13: 9781582464503 (updated from 9781 582464510
Binding: Hardcover
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Publication date: 10/8/2013
Age range: 6 - 9 Years
Product dimensions: 8.20 (w) x 10.10 (h) x 0.40 (d)
Prices subject to change - delays may occure due to worldwide supply chain issues.
ISBN: 9781582464503
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