  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 04/01/2018 K-Gr 2—After Geraldine and her parents move, she realizes that she's the only giraffe at her new school. Back in Giraffe City, she was happy-go-lucky Geraldine; here's she's "That Giraffe Girl." Deflated, she withdraws until she befriends Cassie, another recent transplant. Both become more confident, and Geraldine is soon back to her vivacious self. Reminiscent of Quentin Blake's art, the loose, expressive illustrations brim with drama; a floppy-necked Geraldine sags, sulks, and uses the schoolyard flag as a handkerchief. Debut picture book author Lilly understands childhood anxieties, and her honest but reassuring tale never sugarcoats the angst of feeling different. Even after making new friends, Geraldine confides, "People still look at me funny sometimes, and sometimes I want to hide, or go home, or cry." However, the work ends on a cheery note that will resonate with readers. VERDICT A whimsical take on being the new kid in town; an excellent pick for storytimes or one-on-one sharing.—Mahnaz Dar, School Library Journal - Copyright 2018 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Booklist - 05/01/2018 Geraldine the giraffe is dismayed—you can tell by the disconsolate slump in her long neck. Her parents got new jobs, and now they need to move from the giraffe city to a human town. Being the new girl would be bad enough, but Geraldine sticks out, literally! She’s too tall for the bus, too tall for the pool, and, worst of all, too tall to hide. When she finally finds a quiet tree, she’s surprised when she runs into another girl, Cassie, who also feels like an outcast: “I’m that girl who wears glasses and likes MATH and always organizes her food!” But both Cassie and Geraldine learn that one friend can be enough to create a sense of belonging. Lilly illustrates this evergreen picture book topic with freewheeling artwork in loose, sketchy cartoon figures and watercolor washes. Geraldine’s long neck is particularly expressive, and her height among her human classmates makes for some silly visual comedy. Though there’s not much new here, little ones will likely appreciate the warm tone and humorously mismatched friends. - Copyright 2018 Booklist. Loading...
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