It is not lost on me that I am learning all of this from a picture book! Books that can sometimes be looked down upon or brushed aside as cute stories to be read at bedtime. But not all picture books are created equal. Some can be powerful voices of storytelling and education. Works of art that can ignite a passion in children lasting a lifetime. This is definitely one of the latter.
The Not so Quiet Life of Marcel Marceau begins in 1923 and continues all the way through to the end of World War Two in 1945.Writing about war is difficult at the best of times, but to make a picture book that is accessible to children is a monumental task. Jenn Bailey and Sherry Buhsue have created a true masterpiece using delicate and emotive language.
‘What follows is a year of school, a year of war. Marcel studies art-French Soldiers dig trenches. BRUSHSTROKES AND BOMBS.’
They not only follow Marcel’s life but create a picture of the environment in which he is living and the challenges that he has to overcome. There is a fine balance in knowing what to say and what not to say about the atrocities of the Holocaust, especially to children but Jenn and Sherry walk that line perfectly.
For those that want to know more there are pages of extra information at end of the story. There is a more detailed biography of Marcel’s life (with suggested further resources) along with recommendations for other Holocaust stories suitable for children. Making this the perfect addition to any classroom or library.
Some reviews would stop there, but one of my favourite things about reviewing children’s books is discovering amazing new creators. Well new to me anyway. I’m not sure how I hadn’t heard of the extraordinary talent that is Pamela Zagarenski before but I am so glad I have now. Pamela is a Caldecott Honouree and it’s not hard to see why.
I was first drawn in by the beautifully designed front cover of this book. The quirky figure with sad eyes told me everything I needed to know. Not only was he instantly recognisable as Marcel Marceau with the iconic white face and striped shirt, but those eyes and the delicate touch of the butterfly on the fingertips told me there was an interesting story waiting inside.
It was as I cracked open the cover, that I discovered the front endpapers. I hadn’t even started the story yet and I was already captivated by this magical piece of art. And yes that is exactly what it is, a piece of art.
Continuing throughout were exquisite pages that showed someone who has not only mastered their craft using beautiful textures and techniques, but the chosen colour pallet is perfection.
Pamela has managed to create images where emotions drip of the page. There is an underlying sadness that can be felt throughout the whole book. This book would not be the success it is without her stunning contribution.
I don’t think there has ever been a picture book that has had such a profound effect on me. A story beautifully written combined with the emotional pull of glorious illustrations was more powerful than I can say. I actually had to stop mid story because I found myself weeping at the situation at hand.
‘Before the German police can find him, he makes one last change. With a new name MARCEL MARCEAU, saves himself.’
Being Jewish, Marcel Mangel was not only fighting to survive the war but fighting just for the right to exist. Having artistic talents not only saved his life, but that of many others. Literally.
In a world where true art is being slowly replaced by AI it is stories like this that show the power of creativity and how it must be protected at all costs. Paraphrasing Jenn and Sherry, we must not remain silent.
Title: The Not So Quiet Life of Marcel Marceau
Author: Jenn Bailey and Sherry Zagarenski
Illustrator: Pamela Zagarenski
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Publication Date: 2 June 2026
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781761182945
For ages: 6+
Type: Picture book
