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The Tale of Angelino Brown
A warm and witty tale from a master storyteller, author of Carnegie Medal-winning Skellig and internationally bestseller The Boy Who Swam with Piranhas.Bert and Betty Brown have got themselves a little angel. Bert found him in his top pocket when he was driving his bus.Bert and Betty’s friends think he’s lovely. So do Nancy and Jack and Alice from Class 5K. What a wonder!But Acting Head Teacher Mrs Mole is not so sure. Nor is Professor Smellie. Or the mysterious bloke in black who claims to be a School Inspector.Then there’s Basher Malone – big, lumbering Basher Malone. He REALLY doesn’t like Angelino. And it looks like he’s out to get him...
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 4, 2017
19 people are currently reading
658 people want to read
About the author
David Almond
123 books825 followersDavid Almond is a British children's writer who has penned several novels, each one to critical acclaim. He was born and raised in Felling and Newcastle in post-industrial North East England and educated at the University of East Anglia. When he was young, he found his love of writing when some short stories of his were published in a local magazine. He started out as an author of adult fiction before finding his niche writing literature for young adults.
His first children's novel, Skellig (1998), set in Newcastle, won the Whitbread Children's Novel of the Year Award and also the Carnegie Medal. His subsequent novels are: Kit's Wilderness (1999), Heaven Eyes (2000), Secret Heart (2001), The Fire Eaters (2003) and Clay (2005). His first play aimed at adolescents, Wild Girl, Wild Boy, toured in 2001 and was published in 2002.
His works are highly philosophical and thus appeal to children and adults alike. Recurring themes throughout include the complex relationships between apparent opposites (such as life and death, reality and fiction, past and future); forms of education; growing up and adapting to change; the nature of 'the self'. He has been greatly influenced by the works of the English Romantic poet William Blake.
He is an author often suggested on National Curriculum reading lists in the United Kingdom and has attracted the attention of academics who specialise in the study of children's literature.
Almond currently lives with his family in Northumberland, England.
Awards: Hans Christian Andersen Award for Writing (2010).
His first children's novel, Skellig (1998), set in Newcastle, won the Whitbread Children's Novel of the Year Award and also the Carnegie Medal. His subsequent novels are: Kit's Wilderness (1999), Heaven Eyes (2000), Secret Heart (2001), The Fire Eaters (2003) and Clay (2005). His first play aimed at adolescents, Wild Girl, Wild Boy, toured in 2001 and was published in 2002.
His works are highly philosophical and thus appeal to children and adults alike. Recurring themes throughout include the complex relationships between apparent opposites (such as life and death, reality and fiction, past and future); forms of education; growing up and adapting to change; the nature of 'the self'. He has been greatly influenced by the works of the English Romantic poet William Blake.
He is an author often suggested on National Curriculum reading lists in the United Kingdom and has attracted the attention of academics who specialise in the study of children's literature.
Almond currently lives with his family in Northumberland, England.
Awards: Hans Christian Andersen Award for Writing (2010).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
August 8, 2018
The Tale of Angelino Brown
is a charming middle-grade book that narrates about how a little angel just suddenly appeared in the lives of the Browns and of the people of St. Mungo’s School. Although it is meant for children aged 12 and below, I found myself engrossed in the story and on the characters. Angelino is a little darling; hence a lot of people were immediately drawn to him. However, the unexpected appearance of that tiny angel has also caught the attention of those who have wicked plans to capture him.
This children’s book will enchant kids as well as older readers because of its fascinating and endearing story — it is a delightful and short read with moral lessons about friendship, forgiveness, and kindness that kids will learn after reading.
This children’s book will enchant kids as well as older readers because of its fascinating and endearing story — it is a delightful and short read with moral lessons about friendship, forgiveness, and kindness that kids will learn after reading.
July 23, 2019
4.5★
“Of course I am Professor Smellie! I am a Professor at the Grand and Ancient University of Blithering-on-the-Fen. I have seven Honorary Doctorates and I am a Fellow of —”
This will give you an idea of the tone of the book, something kids will get a kick out of reading. Angelino is a tiny, pocket-sized angel who farts. Yes, farts. That alone will get quite few giggles from young readers.
He appears one day in the school bus driver’s shirt pocket and is quickly adopted by him and his wife and the kids. The other teachers, except for the wonderful art teacher, who is a truly free spirit, can’t stand to have this little distraction in their midst.
Bert and Betty (the driver and his wife) have their own reason for welcoming this little chap, and she’s a school cook who loves filling the kids up with custard and yummy foods.
Picture of Betty in the school kitchen with Angelino
Betty goes to the church to look at a statue of an angel and asks the local priest what angels look like.
“The priest tugs at the white collar around his neck. He lowers his voice. ‘To be honest, Betty, we aren't really believing in things like angels and monsters. Not these days.’
‘Really?’
‘Yes, really. We're more into the modern type of thing.’
‘The modern type of thing?’
‘Yes, Betty. Like getting the guitars out, and the church website, that kind of thing.’
A farting noise comes from the shopping bag. Betty coughs. Father Coogan frowns, then shrugs.
‘Well, I could stand here nattering all day,’ he says, ‘but parish business calls, I'm afraid.’
‘That's OK.’
.‘Would you like me to pray for you, Betty?’
‘Pray for what?’
For your health,’ he says. ‘Your contentment. Your happiness.’
She laughs. ‘What an idea!’ she says. ‘I'm fit as a flea, content as a cow and happy as a horse!’
‘Excellent!’ he says. ‘Then I'll say farewell.’”
But all is not sunshine and roses. A couple of baddies can see a marketing opportunity if they can only catch the angel and sell him.
Their efforts are very amusing and then they get a bit dangerous for Angelino and the kids.
The illustrations are absolutely perfect! Cartoonish sketches with great, intricate detail for some characters and huge, overpowering shadows for the ‘monsters’ who are trying to sell an angel to the highest bidder. The police are called to investigate.
Picture of two police investigators
I enjoyed this very much, and it’s divided into 40+ very short chapters with the writing in pretty narrow columns that make it easy to read. The story is cute and the illustrations by Alex T Smith are terrific. They really make the book that much more appealing.
Thanks to NetGalley and Candlewick Press for the preview copy from which I’ve quoted to give you an idea of the style and vocabulary.
I should note, if it's not obvious from the review, that this is British, not American, and the language may be unfamiliar to American readers. But they should broaden their horizons and enjoy this!
“Of course I am Professor Smellie! I am a Professor at the Grand and Ancient University of Blithering-on-the-Fen. I have seven Honorary Doctorates and I am a Fellow of —”
This will give you an idea of the tone of the book, something kids will get a kick out of reading. Angelino is a tiny, pocket-sized angel who farts. Yes, farts. That alone will get quite few giggles from young readers.
He appears one day in the school bus driver’s shirt pocket and is quickly adopted by him and his wife and the kids. The other teachers, except for the wonderful art teacher, who is a truly free spirit, can’t stand to have this little distraction in their midst.
Bert and Betty (the driver and his wife) have their own reason for welcoming this little chap, and she’s a school cook who loves filling the kids up with custard and yummy foods.
Picture of Betty in the school kitchen with Angelino
Betty goes to the church to look at a statue of an angel and asks the local priest what angels look like.
“The priest tugs at the white collar around his neck. He lowers his voice. ‘To be honest, Betty, we aren't really believing in things like angels and monsters. Not these days.’
‘Really?’
‘Yes, really. We're more into the modern type of thing.’
‘The modern type of thing?’
‘Yes, Betty. Like getting the guitars out, and the church website, that kind of thing.’
A farting noise comes from the shopping bag. Betty coughs. Father Coogan frowns, then shrugs.
‘Well, I could stand here nattering all day,’ he says, ‘but parish business calls, I'm afraid.’
‘That's OK.’
.‘Would you like me to pray for you, Betty?’
‘Pray for what?’
For your health,’ he says. ‘Your contentment. Your happiness.’
She laughs. ‘What an idea!’ she says. ‘I'm fit as a flea, content as a cow and happy as a horse!’
‘Excellent!’ he says. ‘Then I'll say farewell.’”
But all is not sunshine and roses. A couple of baddies can see a marketing opportunity if they can only catch the angel and sell him.
Their efforts are very amusing and then they get a bit dangerous for Angelino and the kids.
The illustrations are absolutely perfect! Cartoonish sketches with great, intricate detail for some characters and huge, overpowering shadows for the ‘monsters’ who are trying to sell an angel to the highest bidder. The police are called to investigate.
Picture of two police investigators
I enjoyed this very much, and it’s divided into 40+ very short chapters with the writing in pretty narrow columns that make it easy to read. The story is cute and the illustrations by Alex T Smith are terrific. They really make the book that much more appealing.
Thanks to NetGalley and Candlewick Press for the preview copy from which I’ve quoted to give you an idea of the style and vocabulary.
I should note, if it's not obvious from the review, that this is British, not American, and the language may be unfamiliar to American readers. But they should broaden their horizons and enjoy this!
June 13, 2017
Grumpy bus driver Bert, thought he was having a heart-attack when he felt something flutter in his chest. It was not a heart-attack he was having, it was a little angel who had found comfort in his shirt pocket.
Bert took the angel home to his wife Betty. Together they named him Angelino, and they looked after him like he was their son. Betty decided that Angelino needed to go to school. She took him to the local one, where she was a dinner lady. The head teacher though, wasn’t impressed with Angelino.
Everyone loved the little Angel, apart from a few who thought that it was okay to bully him. And what about the mysterious man who is trying to get close to Angelino?
The Tale of Angelino Brown at 288 pages long, is an older child/YA book. It is an imaginative, interesting read that covers lots of subjects. From bullying, friendship, to love and happiness.
There are plenty of illustrations throughout, which heighten the interest to an already fabulous plot. The book is engaging, and attention grabbing. It has that old school feel to it, with goodies and baddies.
A charming, captivating story, that I’m sure those that read it, will enjoy it from beginning to end.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Bert took the angel home to his wife Betty. Together they named him Angelino, and they looked after him like he was their son. Betty decided that Angelino needed to go to school. She took him to the local one, where she was a dinner lady. The head teacher though, wasn’t impressed with Angelino.
Everyone loved the little Angel, apart from a few who thought that it was okay to bully him. And what about the mysterious man who is trying to get close to Angelino?
The Tale of Angelino Brown at 288 pages long, is an older child/YA book. It is an imaginative, interesting read that covers lots of subjects. From bullying, friendship, to love and happiness.
There are plenty of illustrations throughout, which heighten the interest to an already fabulous plot. The book is engaging, and attention grabbing. It has that old school feel to it, with goodies and baddies.
A charming, captivating story, that I’m sure those that read it, will enjoy it from beginning to end.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
June 3, 2021
Ta opowieść mnie nie urzekła. Brakowało tutaj sensu, a cała historia nic nie wniosła do mojego życia... Była nijaka.
July 9, 2018
Túto knihu som čítal kedysi strašne dávno. Ešte predtým ako vyšla, ešte neexistovali ani ilustrácie. Dal som ju na jedno posedenie, nakonci som plakal, ale nie od smútku, ale od radosti a od dojatia.
Almond proste píše krásne a bez zbytočných rečí.
Odporúčam ako krátku peknú middlegrade, ktorá sa nič nehrá.
PS: Odkedy som to čítal, furt žerem tie cukríky Midget gems!!!
Almond proste píše krásne a bez zbytočných rečí.
Odporúčam ako krátku peknú middlegrade, ktorá sa nič nehrá.
PS: Odkedy som to čítal, furt žerem tie cukríky Midget gems!!!
January 25, 2018
I read this book in Dutch but will be writing my review in English.
What would you do if you find a little angel in your breastpocket?
I was quite exciting to spot this book at my library, I just adore Alex T. Smith's art, and one of David Almond's earlier books: The Boy Who Swam With Piranhas, was terrific, so I wanted to see what would happen in this one. Would he write yet another magical story? How would the illustrations fit? What would happen to the angel (as there was lots of foreshadowing in the blurb on the back)?
So when Bert (a bit of a grumpy busdriver) meets our little angel, he first thinks he has a heart-attack (as he gets dizzy and feels his boob tickle), but then he finds out there is a little boy in his pocket. A boy with wings!
And thus the story begins! And I just couldn't stop reading. I just flew through this book. I didn't want to stop. Thankfully, I am still not 100% better, so I got enough time to relax and read a book. I am pretty sure I would otherwise have gotten grumpy if I hadn't had the chance to continue reading this book in one go. :P
Angelino, as the angel is named, is a cute little guy who lets out some terrible farts (which had me in stitches, an angel so adorable and then he farts all the time). I just adored the little guy from the start, and I was so happy to see how comfortable he was going with either Bert or Betty when they went to their work. How eager he was to learn, and how happy he was to make friends with everyone around him, how sweet he was to Bert and Betty (yes, he made their life so much more happier, though he also made them remember someone from the past). It was fun to see what happened when he got happier, when he learned, when he got nommy food (fruit hearts and other sweet stuff). It was also interesting to see another side to him later in the book (sometimes indeed you just have to be fierce).
Bert, at first I didn't like him, because he is oh so grumpy, but then later we do learn some things about the past, and I just wanted to give him a hug. I can imagine that he may not have been the happiest person after that happened. Thanks to Angelino he is able to find the happiness he lost and also give the love he wanted to give to that person to Angelino, to have someone to care for again, to have someone to help grow up.
Betty, I loved that woman from the start. She was just so much the sweet grandma-type. The one who will do anything for anyone, who is willing to forgive people for their faults and then also help them find the right way. I can imagine that she is loved by so many people, kids and adults. But as with Bert, I just felt so sorry for her when we learned of what she lost. I am happy that she is getting another chance with Angelino.
I loved Bert and Betty, those are truly goals I hope to achieve with my boyfriend, that, when we are the age those two are (60-ish) we are still acting like we just met, we just fell in love, that the love is still in so much abundance. *sighs happily*
The what is going on and will the villains get Angelino parts were pretty exciting to read, I just needed to know what would happen. Would they catch Angelino? What would they do with him?
The villains? Gee, I just couldn't dislike them, especially as we see them together and we learn more about both of them. I do hope that things will turn out for the better for both of them, they deserve a second chance at life. I am sure both of them can do some amazing things if they want.
I loved the kids, especially Nancy (and then even more so later at a certain part, I am sure those who read it know which part I mean). It was just so much fun how sweet they were with Angelino, how they involved him in everything they did, how they protected him, and then that later part and what they did there.
The ending, and given what we know from Bert/Betty? I just teared up and cried. It was perfect. It was beautiful. That is what I will say, before I accidentally spoil things.
There was just one thing I didn't like. And that is the school and how it handled things, with kids, with lessons, with everything. Especially the later on inconclusive plan that was made. I guess given the ending we will never find out if that was put into reality or if it was aborted from quite early on. :|
The book is also full of fun illustrations that just fit the book perfectly, Alex T. Smith has done it again! All the characters were just spot on, the mysterious parts were perfectly mysterious. Yep, I loved the illustrations!
Phew, I think I could go on about the book a bit more, but I do want to keep parts a surprise and I worry I may just blab the secrets. :P So I will keep it at this, and just say that I would recommend this book to everyone in need for a beautiful, sweet story with silly villains, an angel, and lots of fun. I will definitely add this book to my bookshelves when it comes out in paperback!
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
What would you do if you find a little angel in your breastpocket?
I was quite exciting to spot this book at my library, I just adore Alex T. Smith's art, and one of David Almond's earlier books: The Boy Who Swam With Piranhas, was terrific, so I wanted to see what would happen in this one. Would he write yet another magical story? How would the illustrations fit? What would happen to the angel (as there was lots of foreshadowing in the blurb on the back)?
So when Bert (a bit of a grumpy busdriver) meets our little angel, he first thinks he has a heart-attack (as he gets dizzy and feels his boob tickle), but then he finds out there is a little boy in his pocket. A boy with wings!
And thus the story begins! And I just couldn't stop reading. I just flew through this book. I didn't want to stop. Thankfully, I am still not 100% better, so I got enough time to relax and read a book. I am pretty sure I would otherwise have gotten grumpy if I hadn't had the chance to continue reading this book in one go. :P
Angelino, as the angel is named, is a cute little guy who lets out some terrible farts (which had me in stitches, an angel so adorable and then he farts all the time). I just adored the little guy from the start, and I was so happy to see how comfortable he was going with either Bert or Betty when they went to their work. How eager he was to learn, and how happy he was to make friends with everyone around him, how sweet he was to Bert and Betty (yes, he made their life so much more happier, though he also made them remember someone from the past). It was fun to see what happened when he got happier, when he learned, when he got nommy food (fruit hearts and other sweet stuff). It was also interesting to see another side to him later in the book (sometimes indeed you just have to be fierce).
Bert, at first I didn't like him, because he is oh so grumpy, but then later we do learn some things about the past, and I just wanted to give him a hug. I can imagine that he may not have been the happiest person after that happened. Thanks to Angelino he is able to find the happiness he lost and also give the love he wanted to give to that person to Angelino, to have someone to care for again, to have someone to help grow up.
Betty, I loved that woman from the start. She was just so much the sweet grandma-type. The one who will do anything for anyone, who is willing to forgive people for their faults and then also help them find the right way. I can imagine that she is loved by so many people, kids and adults. But as with Bert, I just felt so sorry for her when we learned of what she lost. I am happy that she is getting another chance with Angelino.
I loved Bert and Betty, those are truly goals I hope to achieve with my boyfriend, that, when we are the age those two are (60-ish) we are still acting like we just met, we just fell in love, that the love is still in so much abundance. *sighs happily*
The what is going on and will the villains get Angelino parts were pretty exciting to read, I just needed to know what would happen. Would they catch Angelino? What would they do with him?
The villains? Gee, I just couldn't dislike them, especially as we see them together and we learn more about both of them. I do hope that things will turn out for the better for both of them, they deserve a second chance at life. I am sure both of them can do some amazing things if they want.
I loved the kids, especially Nancy (and then even more so later at a certain part, I am sure those who read it know which part I mean). It was just so much fun how sweet they were with Angelino, how they involved him in everything they did, how they protected him, and then that later part and what they did there.
The ending, and given what we know from Bert/Betty? I just teared up and cried. It was perfect. It was beautiful. That is what I will say, before I accidentally spoil things.
There was just one thing I didn't like. And that is the school and how it handled things, with kids, with lessons, with everything. Especially the later on inconclusive plan that was made. I guess given the ending we will never find out if that was put into reality or if it was aborted from quite early on. :|
The book is also full of fun illustrations that just fit the book perfectly, Alex T. Smith has done it again! All the characters were just spot on, the mysterious parts were perfectly mysterious. Yep, I loved the illustrations!
Phew, I think I could go on about the book a bit more, but I do want to keep parts a surprise and I worry I may just blab the secrets. :P So I will keep it at this, and just say that I would recommend this book to everyone in need for a beautiful, sweet story with silly villains, an angel, and lots of fun. I will definitely add this book to my bookshelves when it comes out in paperback!
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
January 9, 2019
Het engeltje Angelino Brown komt van het ene op het andere moment in de borstzak van buschauffeur Bert terecht. Niemand kijkt raar op van een engeltje in een borstzak. Engelen bestaan nu eenmaal.
Bert neemt Angelino mee naar huis. Zijn wakkere, positief ingestelde echtgenote Betty is kokkin op een school, waar de strenge mevrouw Mol de plak zwaait. Betty neemt Angelino mee, en al gauw zit het spel op de wagen. De kracht van de verbeelding en de vrijheid van de kunsten moeten het opnemen tegen regels en kennis en een dwingend onderwijssysteem. Bovendien wordt Angelino ontdekt door ene K. en zijn baas, en die twee hebben het minder goed met het engeltje voor.
In het werk van David Almond speelt het fantastische, het magische altijd een rol. In zijn boeken voor twaalfplussers durft de magie donker en onheilspellend te zijn, in de kinderboeken houdt Almond het graag licht en luchtig. Zo ook in ‘Het wonderlijke verhaal van Angelino Brown’. De schrijver steekt door de keuze van de namen en de afwikkeling van het verhaal niet onder stoelen of banken wat hij over bepaalde onderwijssystemen denkt.
‘Het wonderlijke verhaal van Angelino Brown’ is uit het Engels vertaald door Annelies Jorna.
Bert neemt Angelino mee naar huis. Zijn wakkere, positief ingestelde echtgenote Betty is kokkin op een school, waar de strenge mevrouw Mol de plak zwaait. Betty neemt Angelino mee, en al gauw zit het spel op de wagen. De kracht van de verbeelding en de vrijheid van de kunsten moeten het opnemen tegen regels en kennis en een dwingend onderwijssysteem. Bovendien wordt Angelino ontdekt door ene K. en zijn baas, en die twee hebben het minder goed met het engeltje voor.
In het werk van David Almond speelt het fantastische, het magische altijd een rol. In zijn boeken voor twaalfplussers durft de magie donker en onheilspellend te zijn, in de kinderboeken houdt Almond het graag licht en luchtig. Zo ook in ‘Het wonderlijke verhaal van Angelino Brown’. De schrijver steekt door de keuze van de namen en de afwikkeling van het verhaal niet onder stoelen of banken wat hij over bepaalde onderwijssystemen denkt.
‘Het wonderlijke verhaal van Angelino Brown’ is uit het Engels vertaald door Annelies Jorna.
March 19, 2018
When grumpy, angry bus driver, Bert Brown, finds something fluttering in his chest pocket one day he looks down to find the tiny form of a little angel. He takes it home to his wife, Betty, and together they look after the mute little chap who starts off life only communicating through farts (this is very funny).
When Angelino begins school, he quickly becomes popular and starts to learn some important values regarding what is important in our lives (particularly friendship and the arts). However, darkness is always looming and when the school inspector turns up, Aneglino's fate is put at risk.
Almond is becoming far more brazen in his attack on the state of education these days and how it is run and I am so glad that he is. This is not just one story but many. Everyone here is a slave to their social and cultural background and there is much commentary here on forgiveness and finding the human spirit in everyone (well, perhaps not school inspectors...).
Almond's story is full of pathos and it'd be criminal to think that children 'won't get it'. In fact, Almond's point here is that they'll invariably 'get it' quicker than adults. Angelino is a lovely creation but my heart absolutely went out to Bert and Betty - I'm seeing more children's literature come out these days where the adults feature just as much as the children and it's a really good thing.
When Angelino begins school, he quickly becomes popular and starts to learn some important values regarding what is important in our lives (particularly friendship and the arts). However, darkness is always looming and when the school inspector turns up, Aneglino's fate is put at risk.
Almond is becoming far more brazen in his attack on the state of education these days and how it is run and I am so glad that he is. This is not just one story but many. Everyone here is a slave to their social and cultural background and there is much commentary here on forgiveness and finding the human spirit in everyone (well, perhaps not school inspectors...).
Almond's story is full of pathos and it'd be criminal to think that children 'won't get it'. In fact, Almond's point here is that they'll invariably 'get it' quicker than adults. Angelino is a lovely creation but my heart absolutely went out to Bert and Betty - I'm seeing more children's literature come out these days where the adults feature just as much as the children and it's a really good thing.
Read
February 24, 20182018 CARNEGIE LONGLIST BOOK 6/20
The reason I am not rating this is because I don't think I could give it a fair rating. It is obviously for young children, and it very silly and nonsensical. I'm sure they would adore it - it is cute and funny (ish) and easy to read. Me? Hey, I'm not really that into books like this. I would never have picked this up if it hadn't been on the Longlist I am reading. But I think this book is good for the audience it is aimed at, and that is the main thing.
So obviously this is very silly. Not really my thing. I didn't really find it funny, but I think that young children would, what with farting angels and all that crazy other stuff. The humour is delightfully immature, of course aimed at children who like a little giggle when they find out that a particular character can fart We Three Kings in tune. The writing style annoyed me a bit. It is present tense, 3rd person, which I usually like, but in this case I found it a little irritating. However, I think it would sound much better if read aloud, and with small children that it likely to be the case. The book has a simple overcoat of humour and silliness and fun, and at a first glance it doesn't look like much more than that. However, underneath this slightly irritating exterior, there are actually some incredibly moving themes that older readers can appreciate. Themes such as the way a child looks up to their parents, and how that can affect them if they are neglected, the stress and fear that many adults have to face, and It also addresses some ideas about religion in the modern day world, and I was surprised at how deep this book went. It is much more layered than it first appears.
And the illustrations are so cute. They are a great way of enhancing this story, and they do a really great job of balancing out the book. They are funny and cute and I think they were one of the reasons that I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. They were little gems on the pages, and I enjoyed finding them here and there. (the illustrations of Angelino are all adorable). There was only one thing that I truly disliked, and that was the use of a "heart attack" to try and make the book funny. When Bert feels Angelino wriggling around in his pocket, he thinks he is having a heart attack, and the way that this scene is written primarily suggests that it is being used for humour. I did not appreciate this, as heart attacks are serious, and it was a slightly sour note to begin the book on.
This was definitely not my type of book, but I do think that the people that it should be for will love it. As a longlisted book? I think it is a little too young to be on the Carnegie longlist, to be perfectly honest, and I would not choose it as my winner. However, this book is much deeper than it first appears, and it did pleasantly surprise me. I was not enthralled, but it was an enjoyable read. Just not the book I would choose to be shortlisted or to win the award.
The reason I am not rating this is because I don't think I could give it a fair rating. It is obviously for young children, and it very silly and nonsensical. I'm sure they would adore it - it is cute and funny (ish) and easy to read. Me? Hey, I'm not really that into books like this. I would never have picked this up if it hadn't been on the Longlist I am reading. But I think this book is good for the audience it is aimed at, and that is the main thing.
So obviously this is very silly. Not really my thing. I didn't really find it funny, but I think that young children would, what with farting angels and all that crazy other stuff. The humour is delightfully immature, of course aimed at children who like a little giggle when they find out that a particular character can fart We Three Kings in tune. The writing style annoyed me a bit. It is present tense, 3rd person, which I usually like, but in this case I found it a little irritating. However, I think it would sound much better if read aloud, and with small children that it likely to be the case. The book has a simple overcoat of humour and silliness and fun, and at a first glance it doesn't look like much more than that. However, underneath this slightly irritating exterior, there are actually some incredibly moving themes that older readers can appreciate. Themes such as the way a child looks up to their parents, and how that can affect them if they are neglected, the stress and fear that many adults have to face, and It also addresses some ideas about religion in the modern day world, and I was surprised at how deep this book went. It is much more layered than it first appears.
And the illustrations are so cute. They are a great way of enhancing this story, and they do a really great job of balancing out the book. They are funny and cute and I think they were one of the reasons that I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. They were little gems on the pages, and I enjoyed finding them here and there. (the illustrations of Angelino are all adorable). There was only one thing that I truly disliked, and that was the use of a "heart attack" to try and make the book funny. When Bert feels Angelino wriggling around in his pocket, he thinks he is having a heart attack, and the way that this scene is written primarily suggests that it is being used for humour. I did not appreciate this, as heart attacks are serious, and it was a slightly sour note to begin the book on.
This was definitely not my type of book, but I do think that the people that it should be for will love it. As a longlisted book? I think it is a little too young to be on the Carnegie longlist, to be perfectly honest, and I would not choose it as my winner. However, this book is much deeper than it first appears, and it did pleasantly surprise me. I was not enthralled, but it was an enjoyable read. Just not the book I would choose to be shortlisted or to win the award.
July 11, 2017
I received a copy of this title from Walker Books Australia for review.
Ten Second Synopsis:
Bert the bus driver finds an angel in his shirt pocket and his life is turned upside down. But although almost everyone seems to love having little Angelino around, is it really safe for an angel in a world of humans?
David Almond is one of those authors that many people categorise as an "auto-read"; that is, such is the strength of his previous work, any new work that is published will be snapped up immediately by his fans. It's a bit that way for we shelf-dwellers. We loved Skelling, A Monster Calls and Heaven Eyes, for instance, but found some of his other books like Clay and The Savage a bit too dark and depressing. The Tale of Angelino Brown which we received from Walker Books Australia for review, felt like something new from Almond. The magical realism and quirkiness were all still there, but oozing out of the pages was a sense of hope and a lightness in tone that we hadn't encountered in Almond's work before.
There's a real sense of joy that comes flitting through the text and images of this tome, from the opening lines of "Here we go. All aboard", to the rosy-cheeked, golden-haired, flatulent angel of the cover. This book felt quite uplifting to read throughout, which is not always the case with Almond's work, and I couldn't help but feel that this book would be a hit with both its intended young audience, and older readers who dared to venture into books for young readers. The tone is generally light and humorous, without ever losing Almond's signature sense of pathos directed toward certain of the more pitiable characters in the story.
The book opens on Bert Brown's pondering about the deficiencies of the bus driving trade, when all of a sudden, Bert's life is turned on its head by the discovery of an angel - a living, breathing, if somewhat flatulent and undersized angel! The grumpy Bert brings the angel home to his wife Betty and the pair immediately become enamoured of the little creature and name him Angelino. As the story moves on, Angelino becomes a treasured being among the children at the school at which Betty works as a lunch lady and with each passing connection, Angelino grows larger. All is not well however, as unscrupulous and just plain unwise forces find out about Angelino and set into motion a plan to kidnap him for reasons nefarious.
This really is a delightful read, with lots of giggles to be had and a real sense of warmth about the quirky characters. Almond has a way of making even the most odious of personalities at least pitiable, if not likeable, and there is much of that going on here with everyone from Kevin the Master of Disguise, to Mrs Mole the acting Headteacher and the truly monstrous Basher Malone. Bert and Betty are the epitome of lovable however and felt like the true heart and soul of the book to me.
Themes of friendship, forgiveness and the forging of community can be found at various junctures of the story and Angelino, while never the most loquacious of characters, serves as a central focus around which unconnected characters come together. The illustrations enhance the reading experience and wrap neatly around sections of text, giving extra life to the imagery generated by the writing.
I thoroughly recommend The Tale of Angelino Brown to current fans of Almond's work as well as those who have never come across his work before. I could see this being the perfect read aloud for a lower middle grade classroom, both for its humour and its gentle message of rallying around the vulnerable.
Ten Second Synopsis:
Bert the bus driver finds an angel in his shirt pocket and his life is turned upside down. But although almost everyone seems to love having little Angelino around, is it really safe for an angel in a world of humans?
David Almond is one of those authors that many people categorise as an "auto-read"; that is, such is the strength of his previous work, any new work that is published will be snapped up immediately by his fans. It's a bit that way for we shelf-dwellers. We loved Skelling, A Monster Calls and Heaven Eyes, for instance, but found some of his other books like Clay and The Savage a bit too dark and depressing. The Tale of Angelino Brown which we received from Walker Books Australia for review, felt like something new from Almond. The magical realism and quirkiness were all still there, but oozing out of the pages was a sense of hope and a lightness in tone that we hadn't encountered in Almond's work before.
There's a real sense of joy that comes flitting through the text and images of this tome, from the opening lines of "Here we go. All aboard", to the rosy-cheeked, golden-haired, flatulent angel of the cover. This book felt quite uplifting to read throughout, which is not always the case with Almond's work, and I couldn't help but feel that this book would be a hit with both its intended young audience, and older readers who dared to venture into books for young readers. The tone is generally light and humorous, without ever losing Almond's signature sense of pathos directed toward certain of the more pitiable characters in the story.
The book opens on Bert Brown's pondering about the deficiencies of the bus driving trade, when all of a sudden, Bert's life is turned on its head by the discovery of an angel - a living, breathing, if somewhat flatulent and undersized angel! The grumpy Bert brings the angel home to his wife Betty and the pair immediately become enamoured of the little creature and name him Angelino. As the story moves on, Angelino becomes a treasured being among the children at the school at which Betty works as a lunch lady and with each passing connection, Angelino grows larger. All is not well however, as unscrupulous and just plain unwise forces find out about Angelino and set into motion a plan to kidnap him for reasons nefarious.
This really is a delightful read, with lots of giggles to be had and a real sense of warmth about the quirky characters. Almond has a way of making even the most odious of personalities at least pitiable, if not likeable, and there is much of that going on here with everyone from Kevin the Master of Disguise, to Mrs Mole the acting Headteacher and the truly monstrous Basher Malone. Bert and Betty are the epitome of lovable however and felt like the true heart and soul of the book to me.
Themes of friendship, forgiveness and the forging of community can be found at various junctures of the story and Angelino, while never the most loquacious of characters, serves as a central focus around which unconnected characters come together. The illustrations enhance the reading experience and wrap neatly around sections of text, giving extra life to the imagery generated by the writing.
I thoroughly recommend The Tale of Angelino Brown to current fans of Almond's work as well as those who have never come across his work before. I could see this being the perfect read aloud for a lower middle grade classroom, both for its humour and its gentle message of rallying around the vulnerable.
May 18, 2018
“The Tale of Angelino Brown” tells the tale of an adorable angel who shows up in the pocket of a bus driver, and changes the lives of people around him. This was such a cute and charming book to read!
My favorite aspect of this story is the positivity that seamlessly flowed from this story. Most of the kids and adults were not scared of Angelino at all when they meet him! They immediately considered him as one of their own, even though he was different. Betty instantly took to caring for him. It gives a perfect moral to just be yourself and people will like you for who you are. True, there were also some schemers in the book who took advantage of Angelino, but every story needs a villain. However, even the villains are written in such an appealing manner that you realize why they are behaving that way, and feel sympathetic towards them.
Most of the characters are charming and quirky in their own manner. It’s so hard to choose one special character because I was fond of all of them. Angelino is so cute with the way he talks and farts. Bert and Betty are the parents my heart went out to because they accept and take care of Angelino. Alice, Nancy and Jack are inspiring for befriending and supporting Angelino. Moreover, Ms. Monteverdi is so delightful, that I wish she taught in my school when I was young. Even Mrs. Mole and Professor Smellie are hilarious at times with their mannerisms.
Is David Almond the new Roald Dahl? The author tells the story in such a beautiful childlike way that you just get immersed in the story. In a way, his writing style made me feel the same way I felt when I read ‘Matilda’ by Dahl as a child. Suffice to say, I loved his style of whimsical writing and hope he continues writing such stories. Alex T. Smith has added beautiful illustrations to the book. To be honest, the illustrations made the book even more light-hearted that how I imagined. For example, when I first read about Mrs. Mole and Alice, I thought Mrs. Mole was going to be mean and Alice was a snob. However, the illustrations portrayed Alice as cute and smart, and Mrs. Mole as stern but kind. I feel the illustrations made the book story more fresh and interesting.
The only negative part for me was not knowing more about Angelino. Can the author make a sequel to the origins of how Angelino came to being? I would love to read more about them! Overall, I adored “The Tale of Angelino Brown” and give it 4.5/5 stars.
My favorite aspect of this story is the positivity that seamlessly flowed from this story. Most of the kids and adults were not scared of Angelino at all when they meet him! They immediately considered him as one of their own, even though he was different. Betty instantly took to caring for him. It gives a perfect moral to just be yourself and people will like you for who you are. True, there were also some schemers in the book who took advantage of Angelino, but every story needs a villain. However, even the villains are written in such an appealing manner that you realize why they are behaving that way, and feel sympathetic towards them.
Most of the characters are charming and quirky in their own manner. It’s so hard to choose one special character because I was fond of all of them. Angelino is so cute with the way he talks and farts. Bert and Betty are the parents my heart went out to because they accept and take care of Angelino. Alice, Nancy and Jack are inspiring for befriending and supporting Angelino. Moreover, Ms. Monteverdi is so delightful, that I wish she taught in my school when I was young. Even Mrs. Mole and Professor Smellie are hilarious at times with their mannerisms.
Is David Almond the new Roald Dahl? The author tells the story in such a beautiful childlike way that you just get immersed in the story. In a way, his writing style made me feel the same way I felt when I read ‘Matilda’ by Dahl as a child. Suffice to say, I loved his style of whimsical writing and hope he continues writing such stories. Alex T. Smith has added beautiful illustrations to the book. To be honest, the illustrations made the book even more light-hearted that how I imagined. For example, when I first read about Mrs. Mole and Alice, I thought Mrs. Mole was going to be mean and Alice was a snob. However, the illustrations portrayed Alice as cute and smart, and Mrs. Mole as stern but kind. I feel the illustrations made the book story more fresh and interesting.
The only negative part for me was not knowing more about Angelino. Can the author make a sequel to the origins of how Angelino came to being? I would love to read more about them! Overall, I adored “The Tale of Angelino Brown” and give it 4.5/5 stars.
February 17, 2018
Unbelievably joyful, absurdly charming and intensely loveable. I can think of quite a few people who's lives would be improved by the appearance of an angel in their pocket.
Unexpected side effect: I now have an intense craving for midget gems.
Unexpected side effect: I now have an intense craving for midget gems.
May 29, 2017
A charming, poignant and funny tale, which is sure to delight younger readers.
September 30, 2018
The Tale Of Angelino Brown is one of those special books that leaves a lasting impact on it's reader. This story focuses on the impact one tiny angel who suddenly appears has on the lives of those around him. However, as he begins to change things those in the higher authority positions are as determined to provide barriers to this.
However, the story isn't that simple. At every twist and turn a new layer is added to the narrative and the animated characterisation helps to keep the reader engaged. Every layer created a new range of questions and a new challenge about a character's motivation or their story before the book began. At no point did I find myself bored within the story or considering reading another novel. Partially aided by the subtle humorous critique of OFSTED and the current educational climate weaved intricately throughout. The critique is done is such a subtle way that it does not come across as attacking but equally highlights the challenges those in the profession are facing and the divisions appearing.
This text has brilliant potential for the Primary Classroom, not only for the children in the classroom but also for the teachers and other adults in the school. I feel that Angelino Brown's story is so individual that no reader finishes the book on the same train of thought and that this reason would make classroom discussion around the text so exciting. Overall, a really wonderful tale to have read and a definite eye opener for whoever reads this next.
However, the story isn't that simple. At every twist and turn a new layer is added to the narrative and the animated characterisation helps to keep the reader engaged. Every layer created a new range of questions and a new challenge about a character's motivation or their story before the book began. At no point did I find myself bored within the story or considering reading another novel. Partially aided by the subtle humorous critique of OFSTED and the current educational climate weaved intricately throughout. The critique is done is such a subtle way that it does not come across as attacking but equally highlights the challenges those in the profession are facing and the divisions appearing.
This text has brilliant potential for the Primary Classroom, not only for the children in the classroom but also for the teachers and other adults in the school. I feel that Angelino Brown's story is so individual that no reader finishes the book on the same train of thought and that this reason would make classroom discussion around the text so exciting. Overall, a really wonderful tale to have read and a definite eye opener for whoever reads this next.
February 27, 2018
'Skellig' through the eyes of Raymond Briggs, perhaps, as a curmudgeonly old bus driver finds a tiny wee angel in his shirt pocket. Unfortunately he and his sweet wife are too open about its existence – not content with telling friends, she parades it around the school where she works. And someone is not quite open about snatching the angel, but he's there and he won't be dissuaded… The problem with this book is that it doesn't know who its lead characters are – Ethel and Ernest are either dominant or then absent, at times it's the children that first befriend the angel that seem to be leads – and all the while, Angelino is deprived of agency, stuck as he is with just two catchphrases and a propensity to fart. If it weren't for the clues that his rapid growth might be building to A Lesson for someone the book would be quite empty. And it doesn't get much better or coherent by the end – you think the key location is the couple's home, but no – it's somewhere quite different. It's not awful, and has lashings of whimsy and levity, but it's by no means a standout read.
June 24, 2018
The dialog in this delightful tale is so British, one feels they are listening to folks chatting on a London bus. Bert and Betty Brown are a hard working couple, Betty is a cook at St Mungo's elementary school, and Bert is a public bus driver. While driving on his bus route, Bert feels a tingle, oh no a heart attack, the end, he imagines. But, instead he finds a very tiny angel boy in his pocket. He's amazed and his wife is overjoyed, long ago they lost their own young son. The loving couple are ecstatic. Both Bert and Betty take the little angel whom they name Angelino to their places of work. The kids at Betty's school are intrigued. When Bert takes Angelino on his bus route, the joy of his job returns. However everyone is not joyful, as the wrong pair of eyes spot the precious angel. The twists and turns in this mysterious adventure are cleverly paced, and the ending is a surprise. Readers who have a strong imagination will love this story and the whimsical illustrations accompanying it.
December 1, 2018
Sweet fantastical story that children will love.
Bert Brown thinks he's having a heart attack as he's driving his bus one day, but the fluttering feeling in his chest turns out to be a tiny angel in his pocket, one who he and his wife Betty adopt as their own.
Naming him Angelino, the Browns send Angelino to school, where he causes a stir with both students and teachers, and the Acting Head worries it will affect their 'failing' status. But there are others who hear of Angelino and want him for themselves...
A departure from the others I've read by Almond, for a slightly younger readership and only lightly touching on the fantastical elements he employs in Skellig.
I loved hearing the angel's Liverpudlian accent on the audio version, it was a funny little read that I might get my nearly 8-year-old to listen to with me. It's a nice little adventure, with a good moral about banding together with friends.
Enjoyable little story, some funny minor characters.
For ages 7-11.
Bert Brown thinks he's having a heart attack as he's driving his bus one day, but the fluttering feeling in his chest turns out to be a tiny angel in his pocket, one who he and his wife Betty adopt as their own.
Naming him Angelino, the Browns send Angelino to school, where he causes a stir with both students and teachers, and the Acting Head worries it will affect their 'failing' status. But there are others who hear of Angelino and want him for themselves...
A departure from the others I've read by Almond, for a slightly younger readership and only lightly touching on the fantastical elements he employs in Skellig.
I loved hearing the angel's Liverpudlian accent on the audio version, it was a funny little read that I might get my nearly 8-year-old to listen to with me. It's a nice little adventure, with a good moral about banding together with friends.
Enjoyable little story, some funny minor characters.
For ages 7-11.
March 28, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This is an honest review.*
The word that comes to mind when I think about this book is “cute.” The Tale of Angelino Brown is a delightfully cute story that is filled with silly humor and an uplifting atmosphere. Even with the villains in the story, there’s a sense that they’re not really villains, just people who have made some mistakes and who can be straightened out again. Nothing’s particularly scary, and this tale brings home the message that if people are loved and cared for, everything will turn out alright.
There are a few wonderfully ridiculous elements in this story that I think kids will absolutely love. The first, of course, is the appearance of Angelino. He’s a small angel who farts a lot, and who appears in a bus driver’s pocket. The bus driver, Bert, is kind of a cranky individual, but with Angelino’s presence, he becomes pleasant and jocular. He and his wife, Betty, immediately adopt Angelino as their own and care for him. The other silly element is the acting Head Teacher in the school. I loved this. She tries to be super important and professional, and the children see right through her; they try not to have much to do with her and instead gravitate towards the warm, accepting art teacher.
The tension comes from “villains” who are trying to capture Angelino and sell him for a profit. However, as we get to know them (and as Angelino sees), they’re not quite villains and really just need a bit of structure and love in their life. I like that it shows this in a kids book–for something that’s rather a simple concept, it’s not shown enough in fiction, I think. People aren’t just evil, kids aren’t just bad, it doesn’t start and end there. I liked that Bert and Betty understand that and make it their mission to give their support and love to kids who need it. In the end, even the acting Head Teacher realizes that she’s going about things the wrong way, calms down, and starts being more accepting rather than being ridiculously strict.
The illustrations are lovely and match with the lighthearted tone of the story; they portray fun moments in the story and have an element of whimsy and silliness to them that I enjoyed.
Overall, this story was a joy to read. It’s based in Britain, so there may be some cultural elements or language that is unfamiliar to American readers, but I don’t think it’ll be a huge issue, because the humor and message is universal. I definitely recommend this for readers who need an uplifting story and love a bit of silliness in their books.
Also posted on Purple People Readers.
The word that comes to mind when I think about this book is “cute.” The Tale of Angelino Brown is a delightfully cute story that is filled with silly humor and an uplifting atmosphere. Even with the villains in the story, there’s a sense that they’re not really villains, just people who have made some mistakes and who can be straightened out again. Nothing’s particularly scary, and this tale brings home the message that if people are loved and cared for, everything will turn out alright.
There are a few wonderfully ridiculous elements in this story that I think kids will absolutely love. The first, of course, is the appearance of Angelino. He’s a small angel who farts a lot, and who appears in a bus driver’s pocket. The bus driver, Bert, is kind of a cranky individual, but with Angelino’s presence, he becomes pleasant and jocular. He and his wife, Betty, immediately adopt Angelino as their own and care for him. The other silly element is the acting Head Teacher in the school. I loved this. She tries to be super important and professional, and the children see right through her; they try not to have much to do with her and instead gravitate towards the warm, accepting art teacher.
The tension comes from “villains” who are trying to capture Angelino and sell him for a profit. However, as we get to know them (and as Angelino sees), they’re not quite villains and really just need a bit of structure and love in their life. I like that it shows this in a kids book–for something that’s rather a simple concept, it’s not shown enough in fiction, I think. People aren’t just evil, kids aren’t just bad, it doesn’t start and end there. I liked that Bert and Betty understand that and make it their mission to give their support and love to kids who need it. In the end, even the acting Head Teacher realizes that she’s going about things the wrong way, calms down, and starts being more accepting rather than being ridiculously strict.
The illustrations are lovely and match with the lighthearted tone of the story; they portray fun moments in the story and have an element of whimsy and silliness to them that I enjoyed.
Overall, this story was a joy to read. It’s based in Britain, so there may be some cultural elements or language that is unfamiliar to American readers, but I don’t think it’ll be a huge issue, because the humor and message is universal. I definitely recommend this for readers who need an uplifting story and love a bit of silliness in their books.
Also posted on Purple People Readers.
Read
January 26, 2026Cette histoire pour jeunes lecteurs me laisse perplexe. Il y a des bouts du récit qui demeurent en suspens à la fin et trop de mystères inutiles. L’écriture est simpliste, mais ponctuée de mots de vocabulaire recherchés. Mélange étrange.
August 20, 2017
I'm sorta between 3.5stars and 4stars....
Review to come.
Review to come.
March 20, 2018
Oh David Almond, you're a wonderful man! Keep writing stories please!
Read
March 27, 2019Available to read in the SEC at Harcourt Hill Library.
October 18, 2020
I only like this book a little bit, because it is not really the types of books that I like reading. But it is really nice to read though.
August 28, 2022
یه داستان کیوت با کلی شخصیتهای بانمک و نقاشیهای بانمکتر.
September 20, 2018
Angelino Brown is a tiny little angel who appears in bus driver, Bert Brown's pocket. The Browns are happy to welcome Angelino into their family and off he goes to school where Betty Brown is the cook. The children love the tiny angel who learns to talk, fart and fly. It seems everyone is enchanted with the new pupil except for a few mysterious and dastardly villains who are up to no good.
This book was quite delightful and the writing style reminded me of Roald Dahl. It was silly, with plenty of sweetness and surprises. I loved the cover art and the few pencil sketches. It looks appealing and the first few pages of text are hilarious. Overall it has a good message of kindness, dreams that can come true, and evil that can be overcome. I think kids will love this quick read.
This book was quite delightful and the writing style reminded me of Roald Dahl. It was silly, with plenty of sweetness and surprises. I loved the cover art and the few pencil sketches. It looks appealing and the first few pages of text are hilarious. Overall it has a good message of kindness, dreams that can come true, and evil that can be overcome. I think kids will love this quick read.
February 12, 2018
Niceness
You never quite know what you're going to get with David Almond, and I was a bit on edge when starting this book because I expected/feared it might take a dark, or at least very sad, turn at some point. Not to worry. This is a subtle, kind, and exceptionally good humoured tale about the transformative power of innocence, and the worth of something as simple as "niceness". It has its darker moments, but only to allow contrast with the light.
As the book opens, a tiny angel appears in Bert's pocket as Bert is driving his bus. After getting over the fear that the feeling in his chest is a heart attack, Bert is charmed and delighted by this tiny creature. He takes "Angelino" home and he and his wife Betty become doting and proud parents of this tiny package. Angelino is cheerful, mild, innocent, and farts when he's happy. After a few days he goes to school with Betty, (a school cook), and goes on the bus route with Bert, and charms everyone he meets. A running theme/joke/point of the story is that everyone finds Angelino, what he says and does, what he "is", to be "nice" and lovely. And that niceness affects everyone.
That may not sound like much. Sure, there's a slightly threatening Acting Head Teacher, and some dense school administrators and vaguely ineffective police officers, and some sort of villain who briefly kidnaps Angelino, and a bully to be dealt with, but apart from those diversions there is little in the way of a linear "action" plot as such. There is a bit of history in Bert and Betty's past that adds depth and feeling to the whole story, but you can see that coming and it adds a bitter-sweet flavor to the story. Mostly, we just follow Angelino as he leaves a trail of grace and comfort in his wake. Along the way we meet a number of people who are charmed and delighted and brightened up a bit by Angelino. (The brilliant illustrations by Alex Smith perfectly capture this mood of easy and uncomplicated joy.) By the end, the children who want to grow up a bit, do, and the adults who need to get in touch with their inner children, do.
Is this a meditation on the joys of parenting, the innocence of children, childhood lost and found, the power of love, the beauty of the circle of life? Maybe. But you don't have to go there if you don't want to because Angelino doesn't have to explain or defend or justify his existence. He is, and that ends up being quite enough.
(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
You never quite know what you're going to get with David Almond, and I was a bit on edge when starting this book because I expected/feared it might take a dark, or at least very sad, turn at some point. Not to worry. This is a subtle, kind, and exceptionally good humoured tale about the transformative power of innocence, and the worth of something as simple as "niceness". It has its darker moments, but only to allow contrast with the light.
As the book opens, a tiny angel appears in Bert's pocket as Bert is driving his bus. After getting over the fear that the feeling in his chest is a heart attack, Bert is charmed and delighted by this tiny creature. He takes "Angelino" home and he and his wife Betty become doting and proud parents of this tiny package. Angelino is cheerful, mild, innocent, and farts when he's happy. After a few days he goes to school with Betty, (a school cook), and goes on the bus route with Bert, and charms everyone he meets. A running theme/joke/point of the story is that everyone finds Angelino, what he says and does, what he "is", to be "nice" and lovely. And that niceness affects everyone.
That may not sound like much. Sure, there's a slightly threatening Acting Head Teacher, and some dense school administrators and vaguely ineffective police officers, and some sort of villain who briefly kidnaps Angelino, and a bully to be dealt with, but apart from those diversions there is little in the way of a linear "action" plot as such. There is a bit of history in Bert and Betty's past that adds depth and feeling to the whole story, but you can see that coming and it adds a bitter-sweet flavor to the story. Mostly, we just follow Angelino as he leaves a trail of grace and comfort in his wake. Along the way we meet a number of people who are charmed and delighted and brightened up a bit by Angelino. (The brilliant illustrations by Alex Smith perfectly capture this mood of easy and uncomplicated joy.) By the end, the children who want to grow up a bit, do, and the adults who need to get in touch with their inner children, do.
Is this a meditation on the joys of parenting, the innocence of children, childhood lost and found, the power of love, the beauty of the circle of life? Maybe. But you don't have to go there if you don't want to because Angelino doesn't have to explain or defend or justify his existence. He is, and that ends up being quite enough.
(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
June 6, 2018
A good children's book has to be able to keep adults entertained. Well, this one does. It did me take some time to get a bit into the story. I mean you do not meet up every day with an angel and defenitely not with one such as Angelino. It is a great book to read out loud in class or with your child or grandchild. The tone, the stylistic language and choice of words surely make a read that will make you smile. In a way it is a bit of a modern fairy tale. When you are after a great story book to read you will have a winner in your hands. Angelino Brown comes along with many smiles and more he gladly shares with us.
September 29, 2018
Tak sme to docitali. Bolo to mile, ako sa decka spikli proti vsetkym, aby oslobodili kamosa.
Ako sa vie anjel nasrdit, a ako sa hlada anjel uz vieme tiez. Aj to ze prdi!!!!!!!!! To bolo velmi smiesne, jasne? :) Najvacsi zachvat smiechu dostali nasi chalani potom, ako sa dozvedeli, ze sa da vyprdiet aj Vianocna koleda..., co vam poviem, zdroj zabavy na 3 dni :D
Laskou to tam pretekalo, ale tak nejak ludsky a nie nasilu.
Ale najviac ma oslovili tie dve zenusky Betty a slecna Monteverdiova, ktore vo vsetkych videli len dieta, ktoremu niekto kedysi ublizil. Take velke srdce do kelu!!! No..., nemam :) Tak zavidim!
Ako sa vie anjel nasrdit, a ako sa hlada anjel uz vieme tiez. Aj to ze prdi!!!!!!!!! To bolo velmi smiesne, jasne? :) Najvacsi zachvat smiechu dostali nasi chalani potom, ako sa dozvedeli, ze sa da vyprdiet aj Vianocna koleda..., co vam poviem, zdroj zabavy na 3 dni :D
Laskou to tam pretekalo, ale tak nejak ludsky a nie nasilu.
Ale najviac ma oslovili tie dve zenusky Betty a slecna Monteverdiova, ktore vo vsetkych videli len dieta, ktoremu niekto kedysi ublizil. Take velke srdce do kelu!!! No..., nemam :) Tak zavidim!
August 2, 2017
This is a funny and lovely children's book. When I started reading 'The Tale of Angelino Brown' I didn't think I'd like it as much as I did. The story begins with Bert Brown, a bus driver, who is married to Betty. While driving the bus Bert thinks he's having a heart attack but finds a little angel inside his pocket instead. He takes the Angel home and together Betty and Bert decide to look after him and name him Angelino.
I don't want to go into too much detail about the story as it will spoil it but this really is a lovely tale. Angelino is loved by everyone nice and brings out the best in everyone, but not everybody likes to see an angel and Angelino faces some trouble from some bad people. The story is a middle grade/ older children's book although anyone older might enjoy this too. On the whole the story seems a simple and funny one. A lot of the characters are very silly and the situations are daft too (including some references to farting). But although on the surface the story just seems like any other funny story, this book has a deeper story inside it. I don't want to explain what that part of the story is as it will give away the ending but it has a really heartwarming ending and it really put a smile on my face.
There are illustrations throughout the book, although some double pages don't have any images a lot do. These are black and white pictures which are funny and add to the overall fun mood of the story. I do like these images as they make reading this book more fun and I particularly like the pictures of some of the teachers!
Some of the language used in the book is written with accents in mind, such as the word 'maybe' being spelt 'mebbe' when characters talk. This didn't bother me but some kids might be confused by such words. Overall though this is a really lovely book, sweet and heartwarming and I'm glad I read it as I love the ending! I'm sure lots of kids and adults will enjoy this book.
-Thanks to Walker Books for a free copy.
I don't want to go into too much detail about the story as it will spoil it but this really is a lovely tale. Angelino is loved by everyone nice and brings out the best in everyone, but not everybody likes to see an angel and Angelino faces some trouble from some bad people. The story is a middle grade/ older children's book although anyone older might enjoy this too. On the whole the story seems a simple and funny one. A lot of the characters are very silly and the situations are daft too (including some references to farting). But although on the surface the story just seems like any other funny story, this book has a deeper story inside it. I don't want to explain what that part of the story is as it will give away the ending but it has a really heartwarming ending and it really put a smile on my face.
There are illustrations throughout the book, although some double pages don't have any images a lot do. These are black and white pictures which are funny and add to the overall fun mood of the story. I do like these images as they make reading this book more fun and I particularly like the pictures of some of the teachers!
Some of the language used in the book is written with accents in mind, such as the word 'maybe' being spelt 'mebbe' when characters talk. This didn't bother me but some kids might be confused by such words. Overall though this is a really lovely book, sweet and heartwarming and I'm glad I read it as I love the ending! I'm sure lots of kids and adults will enjoy this book.
-Thanks to Walker Books for a free copy.
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