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Brian looks like a gray ghost in this picture book because his teacher doesn’t notice him (she’s too busy dealing with Nathan and Sophie), he’s never picked for teams during recess (best players and best friends get picked), classmates don’t invite him to parties, and they talk to one another as if he’s not even there beside them.
Brian keeps busy drawing, and observing what’s going on around him. When Justin joins their classroom and the kid’s tease him about his Korean meal, Brian leaves him a note that cheers him up. Justin makes friends with Emilio, but Emilio can’t see Brian either until Justin includes him in a class project they are doing. When the three boys being to work together, Brian’s color (and smile) return.
Back material includes questions for discussion and recommended reading for adults and kids on bullying and friendship. Barton’s pencil sketches (colored digitally) are all set in a school. The children in the story can write and draw, and they play tetherball and baseball at lunch. Inside the classroom, there are chalkboards, and at lunch, the children eat healthy foods.
The softness of the artwork reflects Brian’s kindheartedness. Although Brian is ignored in this story, it’s not always intentional. But the storyline will teach children to be more aware of those who are not included or who are quiet in class. They, too, have wonderful qualities that could benefit others.
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Invisible Boy