Saturday 10 August 2019

The Boy in the big Blue Glasses


The Boy in the big Blue Glasses by Susanne Gervay and illustrated Marjorie Crosby-Fairall (EK Books. Exile Publishing) $24.95 ISBN 9781925335996

Reviewed by Claire Stuckey


Like many children Sam does not want glasses: they make his ears hurt. But with the loving support of his extended family he becomes a handsome superhero. He just wants to be Sam. Will anyone recognise him? His friend George knows him, but he believes his glasses have changed him. Sam now finds lots of ways to hide his new glasses, but those pesky adults keep finding them.  Sam feels he has lost his identity.

On the day George is off school, Sam struggles casting off his blue glasses as everyone becomes silly animal shapes. Mimicking and laughing at the images in front of him Sam starts the whole class laughing and they have fun together. Sam has returned. When George returns to school, the class all join in their imaginary games, Sam is satisfied and happy that they all know him once more.

With so many children needing visual aids, this book explores not only the feelings of children but how others respond. It relays both a positive message but shares the fears that a young child might experience including reacting to change. Susanne Gervay has captured this sensitive topic in a wonderful accessible story. 

The illustrations by Marjorie Crosby-Fairall carefully depict Sam's emotional journey. A great book to start discussion on change, difference as well as glasses. This title would be suitable for older preschoolers to early primary (ages 4 to 8 years).


The Feelix Library and Braille House are transcribing the book into Braille which denotes the value to this special picture book.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Buzz Words Books would love to hear what you think.