Jellaby

Title: Jellaby
Author: Kean Soo
Ages: 9-12
Rating: 4/5

Plot: Portia is lonely and having a tough time at school, until she meets a big purple baby monster in the forest. She names her new friend Jellaby and promises to help him find his family.

Assessment: This story touches on feelings of abandonment, as all three of the main characters seem to have lost touch with one or both of their parents. Portia and Jason both try to give the impression that they are tough, but we see their vulnerability at various points throughout the story. This is a two part story and I can't wait to read the next installment to find out more about the characters and whether they will find out where Jellaby comes from.

The illustrations are cute, and are often sweet or laugh out loud.

Soo, K. (2008). Jellaby. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for Children.