From School Library Journal
Gr 3-5-A young boy's guardian angel visits him one night and gives him a guided tour of the realm of heavenly spirits. There are angels of the zodiac, as well as those in charge of the elements, the seasons, the home, birth, death, and healing, and a special guardian for every person in the world. Each of these, in addition to the angelic hierarchy (Seraphim, Cherubim, etc.), is introduced and described, and, best of all, pictured. The watercolor illustrations are a kind of illuminated primitive folk art. Angels of all different colors and sizes fly or walk among beautifully bordered pages, looking fanciful and friendly, rather than ethereal. Most have wings, but no halos, and their clothing is painted in a variety of shades and patterns, including luscious nature prints. The balance of text and illustration is just right. The essence of these spiritual beings could relate to many religious beliefs, and their lore gives a background to angelic references in literature. Ten short excerpts from sources such as John Milton, William Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, and the Bible are tucked into the text. Unfortunately, the story line that the book is built around is stilted, consisting mostly of a Socratic dialogue between Matt and his guardian angel. The boy plays the straight man, asking Muriel just the right questions to lead to the next bit of angel knowledge. It is a jarring element in an otherwise beautiful offering.-Carolyn Jenks, First Parish Unitarian Church, Portland, ME
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