Evaluation: It has never been truer that good things come in small packages than in Andrea Beaty’s Iggy Peck, Architect. Beaty creates a world of complex, sympathetic characters, which is not easy to do within a mere thirty pages of text! Within a few of the opening pages it becomes clear that Iggy, our hero, does not pop off the page merely to entertain us, but to reinforce the so very important understanding that adults must help develop and nurture children’s innate gifts and talents. Just as Iggy suffers when his self-expression is stifled, so too do countless other children when their gifts are ignored or relegated to the recycle bins and trash cans of our schools. Children will find a friend in Iggy, and an all too real nemesis in Miss Greer, Iggy’s second grade teacher. I’ll bet you can fill in the gaps. If Beaty’s prose create a lighthearted glimpse into the life of our three foot architect, then David Roberts, the book’s illustrator, can definitely be credited with bringing them to life. Without Roberts’ skillful drawings, it would have been impossible to develop and flesh out the characters as completely as has been done. Earnest Hemingway take note: sometimes less really is more. By using a minimum of backdrops, using color sparingly yet impressively, and employing facial expressions which range from delight to amazement to disgust, Roberts’ shows how masterfully art can complement text. Were one to remove all text from the book, Iggy’s story would still be powerfully told from the charming illustrations. Not only is Roberts’ a master at understatement, he is also shines in helping create the books many moods. From the moment he begins creating his masterpieces, Iggy’s joy and innocence leap from the pages. From Iggy’s parents’ encouragement, to his classmates’ empathy and determination, the book flows seamlessly from page to page, scene to scene. Roberts’ is even to create sympathy and concern for the uncaring, yet misunderstood, Miss Greer. Mr. Roberts is just as much a story teller with his art as Ms. Beaty is with her words. Response: From the moment I opened the book, I knew I was in for a good time. Although the story is timeless, Beaty and Roberts have styled the setting during the 1960’s, bringing back memories of that era’s architecture, decor, and clothing. The illustrations drew me in as I could almost put myself in Iggy’s shoes remembering my mother and teachers in similar dresses and hairstyles, and classrooms where the teacher was absolute. As a matter of fact, Miss Greer so much reminded me of my second grade teacher, that I took an instant dislike to her. Unlike Miss Greer, who simply had a bad experience as a youngster, my teacher had outlived her relevance in the school and had no tolerance for anything she did not approve of. She taught from her desk to students who sat quietly in rows, and woe unto anyone who dared not tow her line. Vengeance was quick and severe. She did retire the year after I had her, so at least the younger students were spared. Thanks to my third grade teacher, (and to Miss Greer’s change of heart) there was, and is hope and encouragement for our youngsters to express themselves and grow into who they are to be. I couldn’t agree more. Conclusion: From the use of graph paper on the cover art to Iggy’s mother’s flowing pink retro evening gown, Roberts’ illustrations tell a story in themselves. But when so masterfully interwoven with the delightfully rhyming story of Iggy and his own personal journey, one can’t help but be captivated and enchanted by this truly entertaining work. Although intended as a children’s book, it speaks on so many varying levels, that I dare anyone, young or old, not to find something within its pages that speaks directly to them. Simply Wonderful! Rating: A Citation: Beaty. A. (2007). Iggy Peck, architect. New York, NY: Abrams Books for Young Readers.
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