Marty written by Rachel Noble and illustrated by Zoey Abbott/Perfect Picture Book Friday #PPBF

I am thrilled to introduce you all to the cutest little green Martian living on Earth on Perfect Picture Book Friday today! Marty is written by my lovely friend and agency sister, Rachel Noble, illustrated by Zoey Abbott, and published by Holiday House. Hot off the press, Marty had a book birthday last week.

I had the pleasure of meeting Rachel back in November 2017 when i visited the Sunshine Coast in Australia for a few weeks. We went for lunch, and talked about books and stories. She bought me the most adorable ‘Wombat in a teacup’ bauble for my Christmas tree and I think of her every year as it dangles in the boughs.

This is the second picture book by the Rachel Noble and Zoey Abbott team. The first was Finn’s Feather – a heart-felt story of a little boy grieving his brother (Enchanted Lion, 2018). If you would like to find out a little more about this awesome team, please take a look at Rachel’s website here and Zoey’s here .

So, without further ado, it is my great pleasure to introduce you to Marty:

Title: Marty

Written by: Rachel Noble

Illustrated by: Zoey Abbott

Published by: Holiday House

Suitable for ages: 3 – 7 years

Themes/Topics: friendship, science fiction, social studies

Opening:

Image by Zoey Abbott, courtesy of Holiday House

Book Synopsis: (taken from Holiday House):

Marty is a tiny green Martian who lives here on Earth. You’ve never noticed him before, because he is undercover . . . Marty wears disguises and studies human behavior in order to fit in. He is always watching, learning, and laughing.

And then one day, after much preparation, Marty gets a job! He loves to watch his customers, and he even makes some friends. But Marty knows he can never reveal his secret. Humans are terrified of Martians.

When his cover gets blown, Marty needs somewhere safe to go. Who will see beyond his strange, green looks to show him kindness?

This adorable story of an outsider with a good heart reminds readers that everyone needs a place to call home–and a friend for company. Zoey Abbott’s colorful art, full of elaborate costumes and whimsical details, pops against Rachel Nobel’s spare, sweet text. With its charming way of promoting inclusivity, the book makes for a perfect companion to All Are Welcome.

Why I like this book:

Marty is story of inclusion, kindness and belonging. Noble approaches the subject with humor and grace. Her language is spare and simple, but there are so many hidden messages for further discussion with young readers, like homelessness, loneliness, and being a friend. Abbott’s colorful art is a delight to the eye, and i am sure children will spend hours admiring the wonderfully detailed costumes.

Activities to go with this book:

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  Images courtesy of Rachel Noble and family 🙂

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• Paint/collage and decorate a paper roll Marty

• Create a new costume for Marty here

• Create a disguise box for the playroom/classroom

• Organize a costume parade/party

Image by Zoey Abbott, courtesy of Holiday House

Happy Friday everyone! Be sure you check out the other wonderful books over on #PPBF today.

Julie