Jellaby

Soo, Kean. (2008). New York: Hyperion Books for Children. 978-142310337-0

PLOT SUMMARY
Portia is a lonely girl with a mom and an absent father. She finds a cute purple monster in the woods near her house, but rather than be frightened, she befriends it and takes it home. She names him Jellaby and wants to help him get home, but her only clue to his origins is a picture.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This graphic novel is predominantly done in purples, with minimal contrasting colors. Even though there is very little use of other colors, the drawings are distinct and far from boring. I found the palette appealing since the monster is also purple, and it just added to the lightness of the story, especially since the monster is drawn very cutesy and nonthreatening.

There are some underlying themes that are very serious, which might be a reason for the soothing palette of color. Loneliness, the search for origins and discovery are ones that can be heavy when put into certain context, but these are ones that can be dealt with in the book without involving too much emotional investment.

READER'S ANNOTATION

There aren't many people who would take home a purple dinosaur they found in the woods in the middle of the night. Ten year old Portia is apparently braver than a lot of other people. She feeds and takes care of him, and introduces him to her new friend. They want to help him find his way home, but must do it on Halloween so that he can sneak around town without looking suspicious. With only a picture to guide them, they hope to find what they are looking for.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kean Soo originally trained as an engineer, but pursued comics instead. He posted his comics on the internet and soon became assistant editor to the comic anthology Flight. He received an Eisner award for Jellaby.

GENRE

Graphic novel/fantasy

CURRICULUM TIES

none

BOOKTALKING IDEAS

What would you do if you found a cute purple monster in your yard? How would you hide him from everyone else? What could you do to help him find his way home?

READING LEVEL/INTEREST AGE

8-14

CHALLENGE ISSUES

Kids disobeying authority

CHALLENGE DEFENSE IDEAS

Best to know the content of the book and know library policies concerning materials collection and checkout to patrons.

WHY INCLUDE THIS BOOK

It is an enjoyable read with drawings that are well done.