In this hilarious yet touching story from the masterful David Almond, life takes a surprising turn after a bus driver finds a tiny boy angel in his pocket.
Do you believe in angels? Bert and Betty Brown do, because Bert discovered one in his shirt pocket the other day while he was driving his bus. All of a sudden they had a little boy of their very own to care for — how heavenly! Bert and Betty’s friends think Angelino is lovely. So do Nancy and Jack and Alice from school. But the Head Teacher, Mrs. Mole, is not so sure. Neither is Professor Smellie. And who is the mysterious Man in Black who claims to be a School Inspector? Or the big, lumbering Basher Malone? What could all these sneaky adults possibly have against such a perfect little angel?
Angelino Brown—an actual angel—finds a home and grows into a real boy in Almond's latest. Almond's not-overly-reverent look at the transformative power of a pure heart is both sweet and broad-humored...A wise and tender comical adventure.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
This charming story weaves slapstick humor and fart jokes with passages of surprising beauty and depth, hinting at darker troubles without sacrificing child-appropriate levity...A quirky addition to middle grade shelves.
—School Library Journal
In a style reminiscent of Roald Dahl, with over-the-top baddies and determined young heroes and heroines, this narrative at times speaks directly to the reader, encouraging them to think about the underlying themes that are portrayed, sometimes subtly. Particularly relevant is the issue of bullies, what makes them, and what can change them. Smith’s illustrations add to the fun, and despite the levity, there’s depth here that will generate discussion as well as giggles.
—Booklist
