Trent Jamieson (text) and Brent Wilson (illustrator), Mr Impoppable, Larrikin House, June 2023, 32 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781922804440
This delightful and insightful picture book will be wonderful fun to share with the young person in your life.
Readers are introduced to Mr Impoppable, a caring, lovable and generous balloon-headed stick figure. The most important thing about him is his impoppability, which, given he is balloon, is crucial. The second main character is Gerald, who is a balloon popping fiend, not only does he love to pop balloons, but he is also really good at it. So naturally when the two meet, Gerald sees the challenge and asks if he can try and pop Mr Impoppable.
There is a quiet confidence about Mr Impoppable. He is very secure in his impoppability, and so he welcomes all of Gerald’s popping attempts. Gerald starts with a pin, but his efforts quickly escalate to very elaborate, and rather absurd, schemes to try and pop the impoppable man. Mr Impoppable takes this all in his stride, and a friendship forms. I was tempted to write an “unlikely friendship”, though Mr Impoppable is the type of person who is likely to make friends with everyone.
The cartoon-like illustrations, with thick black outlines and bold colours remind me of Andrew Joyner’s work, and the classic Harry books, illustrated by Margaret Bloy Graham. The pictures are action-filled and emotive, sure to grab very young readers’ attention. Older readers might pick up on the subtle themes of authenticity and connection.
I really liked this book because it made me want to think about what I was actually learning from the story. I asked myself questions such as: is Mr Impopppable a doormat to permit Gerald’s attempts at destruction, or is so self-assured in his character that the actions of others don’t impact him? And, if I was more authentic and confident, what friendships might I be able to grow?
The more I think about this story, the more I like it – top pick for 2023 so far.
Reviewed by Cherie Bell
