  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 01/01/2018 Gr 4–6—Bert and Betty Brown are tired of their humdrum lives; Bert drives a bus, Betty cooks for schoolchildren, and the couple is still grieving the loss of their young son. But all this changes when Bert discovers a tiny, innocent boy-angel in his shirt pocket and takes him home. The angel, whom they name Angelino, creates joy and chaos in a struggling school and is angel-napped by a young man named Kevin trying to prove himself a villain. Kevin's attempts at dastardly deeds and the ensuing rescue mission provide a handy plot structure, while queries about the angel's existence gently raise larger theological questions. This charming story weaves slapstick humor and fart jokes with passages of surprising beauty and depth, hinting at darker troubles without sacrificing child-appropriate levity. The ensemble of plucky schoolchildren and bumbling adults is somewhat forgettable, but the book's evocative tone resonates more than the story line would indicate. VERDICT A quirky addition to middle grade shelves.—Kyle Lukoff, Corlears School, New York City - Copyright 2018 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Booklist - 01/01/2018 Bert is a discontented bus driver. His wife, Betty, works happily in the school cafeteria. One day while driving, Bert thinks he’s having a heart attack, but instead he discovers a tiny angel in his pocket. So begins a story as filled with wonder as it is a look into the human condition. Angelino, who only whispers and laughs (and farts!), brings happiness to Bert and Betty, excitement to the local school children, and consternation to the school officials; he also brings out the greed in two bullies who snatch Angelino, intending to sell him for big bucks. In a style reminiscent of Roald Dahl, with over-the-top baddies and determined young heroes and heroines, this narrative at times speaks directly to the reader, encouraging them to think about the underlying themes that are portrayed, sometimes subtly. Particularly relevant is the issue of bullies, what makes them, and what can change them. Smith’s illustrations add to the fun, and despite the levity, there’s depth here that will generate discussion as well as giggles. - Copyright 2018 Booklist. Loading...
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