Marshmallow et Jordan

by Alina Chau, Elise Nicoli

Le quotidien de Jordan en tant que joueuse vedette de l'équipe de basket-ball de son école a pris fin lorsqu’un accident l’a laissée paralysée et en fauteuil roulant. Si la jeune fille est toujours la capitaine de l’équipe, la compétition et, avec elle, ses rêves de grandeur, semblent loin. Jusqu'à ce qu'une rencontre avec un mystérieux éléphanteau, qu'elle surnomme Marshmallow, mène Jordan vers un nouveau chemin  : celui de l’amitié, de l’entraide et de l’acceptation de soi.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Middle Grade, Fantasy, Sports, Comics, Disability, Animals

Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2021

About the author

Alina Chau (周曉芬) is an award-winning filmmaker and artist. Her credits include the Emmy Award-winning Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated series, and numerous best-selling games. She illustrated The Nian Monster, which received the 2018 APALA Picture Book Honor. Having grown up in Hong Kong in an Indonesian-Chinese family during the British colonial era, her creative vision is strongly influenced by a diverse mix of cultures. She finds inspiration in her grandmother's stories, colorful sarongs, and delicate wooden sculptures from Southeast Asia, as well as in the aroma of stinky tofu, and the sound of Hong Kong tram bells chiming. Alina's unique cultural heritage strongly influences her artistic and storytelling voice. Her whimsical illustration style is highly sought after for art exhibitions worldwide. Her lyrical watercolors have garnered her a devoted fan base and the accolades of her peers.

Reviews

[Jon Nakapalau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jordan was the star player for her school’s basketball team until an accident left her paralyzed from the waist down. She tries to take on the role of team captain and assistant coach - but it is hard to watch others do something you love and will never be able to do again. A small white elephant that has a wounded leg comes into her life (who she names Marshmallow) and things seem to get better. But when Jordan is asked to join the girls water polo team she discovers that some of the other girls doubt her ability to help the team win. As time goes on it becomes clear that there is something that Marshmallow is hiding - will Jordan be able to fit in and solve the mystery of Marshmallow before the semester ends? Fantastic book about friendship and the ability to overcome obstacles - beautiful art that really makes the story even better. Great book for a young child having problems fitting in.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this sweet, heartfelt graphic novel. Alaina Chau’s illustrations impressed me in a few picture books and absolutely adore her work here – it’s warm, soft yet vibrant, full of beautiful detail -- I especially love all the cultural elements, the landscapes (some are pretty enough to frame!) the shrines, the food, the flowers yet there’s also just such a fun, anime-type vibe to the illustrations of the girls at school and at practice. And Marshmallow the little elephant is absolutely the cutest. I can’t say too much about Marshmallow without giving something away, but I was touched by the ending and appreciate the author’s note that explains more about her inspiration for Marshmallow’s character. Jordan is also a great character, inspiring but also very real with her emotions. While perhaps her story of moving from the basketball court to the water polo team (after suffering an injury that confined her to a wheelchair and ended her basketball dreams) is a tad idealistic, I found myself cheering all the same. Her international school is interesting and the side characters feel well-developed. I wanted to hug this book when I finished it and I always think of it with a smile. Back matter is the icing on the cake, explaining more about Jordan’s world, including some facts about Indonesia, including food, language, map of the islands, climate (with an environmental message), and agriculture.
My only small quibbles are that I could have done without the good-natured teasing a brother gives his sister when she says her sarong shrunk and he says “are you sure? Maybe you’re just getting chubby.” Also, I do think the author needed to clarify a bit more about the religions of Indonesia. Jordan’s family is Hindu so that is a big focus of the book and, while there is certainly nothing wrong with that, a reader without further insights into Indonesian society might think that the majority of Indonesians are Hindu when, in actuality, 87% of the population of Indonesia are Muslims and only 1.5% are Hindu (meanwhile, 7% are Protestant and 3% Roman Catholic). There is a Muslim presence, her teacher, Mr. Al-Samarri, and some women in street scenes wearing the hijab, but I would have liked a bit more clarification in the back matter since it is already so educational. However, on the whole, I didn’t want the book to end (and I’m not a big one for graphic novels, usually) and I look forward to more from this talented author-illustrator.
There's a preview of the book here, and short author interview:https://alinachau.com/blog/marshmallo...
And here's a fun behind-the-scenes making-of: https://alinachau.com/blog/behind-the...

[laurel [the suspected bibliophile] · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was absolutely adorable!

The drawing of Marshmallow was a pure delight, and I loved Jordan's tenacity and athleticism.

[Elizabeth☮ · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely tale of friendship! Jordan is a young girl that is wheelchair bound because of an accident. It isn’t until she finds an injured elephant she names Marshmallow that she begins to learn how to navigate her physical changes.

Jordan is surrounded by wonderful people that love and support her. She practices with the basketball team, but she can’t compete with them because of her wheelchair. Marshmallow is the encouragement Jordan needs and manages to coax Jordan into swimming. Jordan realizes her strength in the water. Her coach refers her to the water polo coach where Jordan can apply her skills in a new way.

This is a positive representation of friendship, teamwork and differently-abled people.

I loved the colorful panels and the side story of how a drought affects the team mates.

[Prince William Public Libraries · Rating 5 out of 5]

A terrible life-altering event that could have broken the spirit of a young girl instead showed Jordan’s strength of character and her prevailing nature. Now, attached to a wheelchair after her accident, she didn't give up on her dream of being a star athlete. With help from her new friend Marshmallow, she learns that water polo is a sport that she can succeed in and works hard to achieve her dream.

Everything seems great until she realizes that Marshmallow has a secret. If she can’t get him to share it, many people will suffer. What is it? Let’s all read this book and find out what Marshmallow is hiding.

- Natasha C., Haymarket Gainesville Library

Click here to find the book at Prince William Public Libraries.

[D.T. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is truly a “slice of life” story or an“iyashikei (primary aim is to heal the audience through scene depictions of the characters’ daily lives - Anilist).” There are not a lot of plot points, so I would consider this more character-driven. It’s overall very charming! The illustrations are just adorable and lovely. I enjoyed seeing a story set in Indonesia.

After an accident a few years back, Jordan, an avid basketball fan and athlete, has been in a wheelchair. Because of this, her role on the team has significantly decreased, and she feels her best sports days are behind her... Until she meets Marshmallow, a cartoonishly cute, white elephant.

I love that Jordan is not defined solely by her disability. She loves sports, yummy food, and still has middle-school friend drama. The ending gets cheesy, but I found it fitting nonetheless.

3.5

[Loz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A soft, gentle, thorough delight.

[Cherlynn | cherreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐

Soooo good! This is a sweet and uplifting coming-of-age story that follows Jordan, who rescues a white elephant one day. I love the disability rep and how Jordan's injury or past is never elaborated on. This aligns with the author's intention to not Jordan be defined by her disability.

The story is set in Indonesia and I enjoyed all the cultural insight. The artwork is lush and beautiful, with mouth-watering illustrations of Indonesian snacks. The water polo competition was intense and I found myself tearing up with emotion. Besides beautiful themes of friendship and kindness, this book also sheds light on droughts experienced by the country.

I wish we got to hear more from the side characters, but overall I went into this graphic novel blind and loved it from start to end. Highly recommend!

[Lovely Day · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75⭐️

Stunning artwork and the story was cute except for the heavy focus on sports (which is just not a personal interest for me 🤷🏼‍♀️)

2 abuses of God’s name

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A joy to read.

[Kara Ayers · Rating 3 out of 5]

🚀 The Book in 3 Sentences
This graphic novel follows Jordan, who was a star athlete of her basketball team prior to her spinal cord injury, as she meets a mysterious white elephant who helps instill the confidence she needs to try a new sport. Jordan was still a valued member of her basketball team in a coach or manager role but she wanted to compete. Jordan joins the water polo team and excels in new ways.
🎨 Impressions
The book has creative metaphors about how our bodies, relationships, and environment are connected.
How I Discovered It
My mom sent us a copy. My 11-year-old read it first and wanted me to read it as well.
Who Should Read It?
Anyone! I read this book in two sittings. No content warnings. Anyone 10+ would enjoy.
☘️ How the Book Changed Me
I'm reminded that I really enjoy graphic novels and should read more.
✍️ My Top 3 Quotes
I didn't note any quotes but definitely should have read the back of the book before I started it. The back has a legend of common Indionesian phrases throughout the book, like "thank-you". I kind of figured them out but it would've made it easier!
📒 Summary + Notes
I appreciated how this book diverged from overused disability tropes in several important ways. Jordan remained a valued and respected member of her basketball team after her injury. She wasn't a token or a mascot. Still, she had a drive to compete that she needed to fulfill. Her friends, at times, had trouble understanding this and she was doubted by those on the new team who didn't already have an established relationship with her. Perhaps my favorite diversion from overused tropes was the author's choice that we never find out about her accident. It.does.not.matter.to.the.story. We promote voyeurism in this idea that we-often as perfect strangers-have a right to inquire about what may have been a very traumatic experience for a person. If they want to share, they will. And often, it's not relevant. Marshmallow was an important character because his silent, reliable presence was sometimes all Jordan needed. I appreciated little details-like the lack of overbearing or overprotective messages about Jordan. I won't spoil the end but it's sweet and adds a touch of magic to the realities of our Earth today. I don't think I've read a book set in Indonesia so that was a good change of pace too. I'm not great at reflecting on the graphic novel elements of book but the artwork is beautiful.
⭐What rating and why
3.5 for this one. It was a fun read. Nothing too surprising or mind-blowing. I was appreciative of a positive representation of disability but it also didn't dive into the depths enough to merit a 4-star rating for me.

[Snail · Rating 3 out of 5]

While the art and dialogue felt stiff throughout much of the book (which may not matter to younger readers so much), Alina Chau's art really shone in the two page spreads depicting landscapes and nature, and the water scenes and scenes at night were very beautifully depicted. The moomin-like expressions of the elephant were charming, as well.

The story felt a bit choppy and perhaps unnecessarily long... the reveal about the elephant was interesting, but felt kind of tacked on or rushed, despite the whole book leading up to it in some sense. This story seemed a little experimental, and I wonder if it may have tried to focus on too many topics at once.

I can see this story possibly being well done and paced differently in animation (or in a children's book where each page can be a sort of "still" shot), but in comic form it lacked the movement and life I look for.

In any case, Chau has achieved more in this comic and publication than I have, so I don't mean to criticize; I'm more writing these thoughts down to better understand what I enjoy in stories and art, and how I can improve my own comics.

[eva ⚘ · Rating 4 out of 5]

a sweet and heartfelt graphic novel on disability and with lots of indonesian folklore 💗

[debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was SO ADORABLE

[allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5
this graphic novel had the best art i have ever seen in a book. the story was so cute and heartwarming. the fantasy aspects were done really well. the plot was a little lacking, but i’m blaming that on the fact that it is a middle grade novel. i loved learning about the indonesian culture. overall, really enjoyed this one!

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

The cover for this book caught my eye in the library, and I checked it out, even though I already had a bunch of graphic novels at home. It’s a sweet story that got me teary, although the script wasn’t one of the book’s strengths. It’s worth reading for the art, story, Indonesian setting, a heroine who’s in a wheelchair, and her buddy Marshmallow, an adorable baby elephant with a secret.

[Arathy S · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved this! Super cute art!

[Desarae · Rating 3 out of 5]

A graphic novel with such a pretty illustration style, endearing characters, and a cute story. Deals with disability, adapting and learning new things, middle school friendship struggles, and a gentle introduction to other cultures for young readers. Since this is set in Indonesia, it does depict Hindu offerings/ and one main god, and Hindu legends play a large role in who/what Marshmallow actually is. Very light though, it would be a great teaching opportunity if read and discussed with your kids.
I appreciate the supportive family and teachers, the adults are depicted well, and though the friend group and team members have their misunderstandings and some hurt feelings, they mend well and have solid relationships.

[Becky B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jordan used to be the star player on her elementary basketball team, but after an accident put her permanently in a wheel chair she has been downgraded to assistant coach for her middle school team. She can still shot and score, and is still an integral part of the team, but the Regional division will not allow her to play. After Jordan rescues an injured baby white elephant on her way home from school and brings it home for her veterinarian mother to check out, Jordan finds a new friend and inspiration. Marshmallow makes Jordan a pool and encourages her to swim, helping the adults in her life realize that there may be another sport Jordan can play, water polo. But can Jordan balance both helping the basketball team and playing with the water polo team? And will her legs even let her succeed as a water polo player?

I absolutely love that this is set in Indonesia. I’m always on the hunt for more books featuring Asian characters and set in Asia since I teach at an international school in Thailand. Books set in Indonesia are exceedingly hard to find. Right now I can actually only think of one other fiction book set there off the top of my head. For the most part, this graphic novel depicts what modern everyday life is like for middle schoolers in Indonesia. The very end of the story adds a touch of fantasy/mythology that will appeal to readers who enjoy Riordan press books. The art style is very attractive and absolutely delightful. You are completely justified in picking this up just to look at the pictures. What really shines through most though is the heartfelt message of a girl with a disability who isn’t letting that stand in the way of trying new things, encouraging her former teammates, being a good friend, or going all out to be the best she can be. Jordan has to navigate very realistic friendship issues, and then of course there’s Marshmallow the baby elephant who ads humor and tenderness to the story. An all-around excellent middle grade graphic novel. Highly recommended.

No content issues [based on the ARC].

I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Dan Allbery · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jordan is a determined girl who will not allow her physical disability to slow her down or weaken her spirit. With help from Marshmallow, an orphaned, white elephant, Jordan dives into the world of water polo to find a new passion.

This is not the strongest story line, but representation matters. Given that it is set in Indonesia, I found myself spotting all the linguistic ("terimah kasih") and visual (ayam goreng, durian, Balinese temples) reminders of my former host country. A friend recently told me about a training she attended where it was discussed how the mere presence of a culture in a library is not enough, but the "fullness" of a culture must be present. Not just inner-city black stories or Mexican immigration stories. A culture is multi-layered and varied and so should the books from one culture or part of the world. Marshmallow & Jordan helps achieve this for Indonesia and Asia. Recommended for GR 5-7.

[Sinistmer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this all right, although I was not as impressed as I expected to be. The artwork is really cute, with its soft colors--Marshmallow the elephant was especially adorable! I liked the natural incorporation of Indonesian culture (with the helpful glossary in the back) and Jordan's life as a wheelchair user. It strikes a good balance between being realistic but not overly dramatic. The story started fairly strong, but I thought it lost some of its flow at times, either resolving without really having the characters work through it and rushing the ending. Overall, it's cute and enjoyable, and I think it would find an audience among kids.

[acorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wholesome, colorful, adorable 🌸🌻🧡❤️

Jordan loves being with her basketball team and best friends even though she can’t play fully with them anymore. When she finds a cute white elephant one day and her parents say he can stay with them, Jordan is filled with hope and love. With this new friend comes a new opportunity and possibly new passion…

This book is soooo adorable and awesome. I love Jordan and all of her friends. And Marshmallow is THE CUTEST THING!!! The illustrations are gorgeous and I really enjoyed learning about Indonesian culture as well!! ✨

If you want an easy lovely read, this one is for you. 💕

[Margaret · Rating 2 out of 5]

This middle grade graphic novel has very sweet illustrations. It takes place in Indonesia and it's about a girl who can't play basketball anymore after an accident left her unable to use her legs. She joins the water polo team instead, and she also finds a white elephant that becomes her best friend and is also a rain cloud.

I love the elephant and setting, the story leaned heavily on disability themes but they didn't have the nuance I see in actually disabled stories, and some of the bullying the main character experiences is never confronted or called out.

[reallee · Rating 5 out of 5]

C'était tellement adorable !

On suit ici Jordan, une jeune fille qui s'est retrouvée en fauteuil roulant suite à un accident et qui doit faire face à tous les changements que cela implique dans sa vie. Elle rencontre alors Marshmallow, un bébé éléphant blanc avec qui elle se lie d'amitié. Ensemble, ils grandissent, se découvrent et s'entraident.

J'ai beaucoup aimé tout l'aspect culturel de cet album qui se passe en Indonésie et qui nous en dévoile les traditions et les croyances.

Le dessin est tout doux et m'a transporté de retour en Indonésie 🥹

[Sesana · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sweet little book. Set in Indonesia with effortlessly casual cultural representation, starring a main character who is disabled whose disability is part of her story but not the most important part, with an adorable animal sidekick. Jordan's story is about friendship a lot more than it's about disability, and it covers various shades of being a good and supportive friend. And of course, there's a sweet baby elephant as pet.

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars-- "Sweet" is the word for this junior graphic novel about a girl who rescues a magical baby elephant and learns to navigate her world with heart and confidence. The illustrations are delightful, a dazzle of color and and the rich culture of modern Indonesia. This is also one of the still-few junior titles that features a MC who uses a wheelchair.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

O my goodness what a heartwarming story. A little more about Marshmallow would have been good, though. And maybe a mention of the value of a good academic school, not just sports, imo. Still, I love Jordan, and even more all her teammates, and even more the glimpses of Indonesia that we get to see.

[Tam Newell · Rating 2 out of 5]

2025 Bluestem nominee. Graphic novel about an Indonesian, athletic girl who loses use of her legs in an accident. After she finds a hurt elephant, she decides to adapt to other ways to be an athlete. The story was fine til the end…I don’t like when stories change genres at the very end of the book, and that is what this book did. Disappointed.

[Aurora · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very pretty art (love the colors!) but the story is… a mess. She misses one game and her friends all ostracize her for WEEKS? The magical realism elephant also is just… a strange choice. Then suddenly at the eleventh hour it can speak??

[Eliza · Rating 2 out of 5]

The book was okay. Finished it one day! I thought Marshmallow was very cute. I was disappointed it never told you how the girl got parallelized. 2 stars.