The unforgettable What's his name by Paul Jennings

Allen & Unwin, 2016. ISBN 9781760290856
(Age: 9+) Highly recommended. The unforgettable What's his name explores what it is like to be invisible. The main character is commonly referred to as 'What's his name' and feels like nobody sees him. He has no friends. He feels like he doesn't belong. In a moment of stress, he blends into his environment to escape a group of angry bikers. He literally becomes the bush he is standing in front of. He then blends into a wall and then becomes the tree. Eventually, he can change at will. Mum doesn't believe him and his new biker friend thinks he is a bit strange. Along the way, our main character makes friends with a dog and rescues a group of monkeys. Maybe you can be quiet and shy but still be amazing!
The unforgettable What's his name is an adventure as well as a trip of discovery for our young main character. Readers will not find out his real name until the end. The story is thoughtful, dramatic and funny. It is full of adventures and discoveries, proving it is okay to be yourself and there is no need to change. The text is descriptive, with just enough suspense to keep readers wondering what will happen next. The accompanying illustrations are detailed and colourful and readers can see if they can find the main character as he changes and hides. The unforgettable What's his name is a thicker novel at over 200 pages but it is still ideal for more reluctant readers thanks to the illustrations. Highly recommended for all readers aged 9+.
Kylie Kempster