Albert Talbot: Master of Disguise

Walking to school, presenting his class project, taking a swimming lesson… Albert’s life is one big challenge. Luckily for Albert, he’s a Master of Disguise, with an array of alter-egos to call on in emergencies. From Rusti Buffels the mountaineer to Antarctic Submariner Zandrian Delaclair, from Anselom Facklejacket to Professor Octavius Pickleswick, Albert’s alter-egos are always ready to step in and take the pressure off. In Albert’s case, imagination is definitely the original super-power. It certainly helps him make it through the day to bedtime…

Beyond Albert’s realization that ‘being himself’ might sometimes be the best of all, there’s little in the way of over-arching plot within this book. But as a joyful and absorbing exploration of a series of imaginative set-pieces it has much to offer, and Guillery’s engaging illustrations add bags of energy and charm. Additional visual details take each story deeper, as well as creating links across the spreads, and it’s worth taking plenty of time for reflection and discussion as you share this book.

Whether you’d like to support an anxious child, or are simply looking for escapist fun, this is a book that will be enjoyed and appreciated. Young audiences will recognize and respond to Albert’s message: you may have to toe the line and obey the rules but your mind is your own – and imagination is power.