Geraldine is a spunky “drama queen” of a giraffe. On the very first page, the only line on the page is given to us by Geraldine,
“I’m moving.”
She says draped like a deflated balloon over a stool. Obviously Geraldine is unhappy about a move.
Geraldine is even more unhappy when she arrives at her new school,
“I learn two things before school even starts: One, I am definitely the only giraffe in this school. And two, flags make very good handkerchiefs.”
Poor Geraldine. She just doesn’t fit in. She refers to herself as “That Giraffe Girl” and her voice becomes very, very quiet.
But when she finally meets Cassie,
“… that girl who wears glasses and likes MATH and always organizes her food”
a delightful friendship is born.
There are many deeper moral implications to this funny and light-hearted tale. Although the main setting deals with the jitters of moving, a new school, and not knowing anyone, Elizabeth Lilly manages to hit the ball a little farther out of the park by wrapping it all up with feelings of inclusion, diversity, and being true to oneself.
That extra meaning, delivered with light-hearted humor is why I am recommending the story. I love it as a picture book because of how sucessfully Lilly’s illustrations show and tell us more of the story. I found her whimsical/sketchy illustrations a real standout and refreshing change. They remind me of Sir Quentin Blake and his “how did he get so much emotion into that one gestural line?” way of drawing. Darling Geraldine is so endearing with her noodley neck and upside down gaze at the world—
I just fell in love with her.
(all images and text are copy-written and belong to Elizabeth Lilly, A Neal Porter Book, Roaring Brook Press, NY)
Thank you for visiting!
Thanks for bringing this one to our attention! I’ll be watching for it on shelves near me.
Hi Cindy, Hope you enjoy the book,
I agree with the Quentin Blake influences. This book looks so wonderful. Did not know about it. Ordering at the library now.
Thanks for visiting today, Kathy! Hope you like the book!
Seems a great example of letting the ‘simple’ story (text + art) speak on its own merits to larger truths. Thanks!
Terrific point, Katie, thank you!
“Noodley neck” is perfect! Have loved Geraldine ever since Elizabeth shared her with our Epic18 debut PB group. Looking forward to many more inspired titles from Elizabeth!
How wonderful, Cathy! Thank you for visiting and sharing!
Giraffes are my favorite! I’ll be looking for this one!
It’s a very funny book, Judy—- Enjoy!
This looks adorable and full of heart! Can’t wait to read it! Thanks!
Thank you, Angie! Hope it makes you giggle!
I love this idea! And giraffes! And these illustrations!!
Hi, Kevan, it’s very funny—- you’ll love it!
What an homage to diversity and finding inner strength!
It sure is, Mary! Thank you!
Love the drama queen issue combined with a giraffe’s body language!
I thought it was very funny, too, Mary. Thanks for visiting and commenting!
Love the noodley neck! I can see this PB has it all -especially humor and heart – what a winning combination!
Hope you like the book, Danielle! Thank you for stopping by today!
Thank you for introducing me to Geraldine and her new friend, Cassie. Such whimsical illustrations with a special message.
You’re very welcome, Suzy. Thank you so much for visiting PBB today!
I’m looking forward to reading this book. I’m intrigued by all the layering.
I hope you like it, Kathy. I sure did! Thanks for stopping by and commenting!
Very cute! Love the voice & illustrations!
Hi, Tina! Thanks for visiting us!
Thanks for telling us about this book. The characters are interesting and the storyline sounds fun and meaningful. Love the illustrations, too.
I’m completely won over! Geraldine is wonderful, in her noodly way. I’ll run out and get a copy!
Yes, It’s terrific. Such a great character.