Gideon - Hardcover

Francesca Greco is a young italian illustrator who studied at the university of Perugia. She lives with her family, her dog and her pet chameleon, who inspired this story.

This is the story of a chameleon that saves the world --well, at least his world. Gideon tries to make friends with the other jungle animals, but because of his natural disguises, no one can see him. No matter how hard the little lizard tries to be noticed, he is only a disembodied voice to the others, and he cannot participate in the activity around him. In despair, he flees, but on his way out of the forest, he spots trouble for the jungle denizens -- a tiger. He races back, successfully wards off the threat, and feels more a part of the community from that day forward. Not only is this a tale about the desire to belong, but it is also about one individual making a difference. The vibrant, pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations depict an imaginative jungle world full of motion, with the alternately gray, pink, or striped chameleon with prismatic eyes by turns blending in or standing out. Gideon is unique among the animals, and he has a unique contribution to make. Children will relate to this simple, satisfying story. --School Library Journal

... what end-papers! A wildly baroque watercolor setting with animals and elaborate flowers all intertwined include a pink Gideon reclining in a pink blossom. The double pages are filled with visual delights as he moves abut the fanciful plants and birds and monkey trio. Even the teeth-gnashing tiger is tamed by artistry. --Children's Literature