Weirdo by Zadie Smith and Nick Laird illustrated by Magenta Fox

The Surprise arrives for Kit's birthday. Kit heads off to school so the pets in her room try to work out where The Surprise fits in. They decide she's a weirdo. The others leave to watch television which is a part of their schedule. In the bedroom, The Surprise works out how to fly and her balloons take her out of the window. She lands on a verandah and meets the wonderful Emily Brookstein. Others call her weirdo too. The Surprise has a wonderful afternoon with Emily sharing macaroons and card games. At three o'clock, Emily carries The Surprise back to her apartment and young Kit. Finally we discover her real name (Maude) and her skill with judo is recognised and can now be included in the schedule by the other pets - she is finally accepted. 

Which cover do you like? One is the hardcover and the other the paperback. I like the paperback. Zadie Smith and Nick Laird are married. Take a look at this review from Just Imagine where you can read more about the illustrations by Magenta Fox. 

A rather lovely picture book about being unafraid to be yourself, Weirdo features absolutely stunningly warm, characterful and adorable illustration from Magenta Fox, and a nicely paced text from Smith and Laird, who are usually found writing for adults. Book Trust

Here is the back cover:

This is a perfect picture book - yes I did say perfect! It is one I would add to every Primary school library collection. I loved the emotional arc of the story, the exploration of the power of words to hurt and heal and the kindness of strangers. It reminded me of the feelings I felt when I read Truman by Jean Reidy and Felix and Alexander by Terry Denton. 

I would Weirdo follow with these:

Albert Le Blanc to the rescue

Ruby and Little Joe