Review: The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger

The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger (Mar 2010, Harry N. Abrams, Inc. , ISBN: 0810984253)

First Line:
The big question: Is Origami Yoda real?

Review: The Strange Case of Origami Yoda is a series of short chapters narrated by class-mates of sixth-grader Tommy which he has gathered together to decide if Origami Yoda, a paper finger-puppet on the finger of 'loser' Dwight, is using the Force to answer questions posed by Tommy's class-mates, or whether Dwight is supplying the advice himself.

Adding a complication is that Origami Yoda's advice is usually wise but sometimes contradicts what Dwight appears to think.

Tommy's friends Harvey and Kellen add their thoughts and drawings to Tommy's casebook along the way.

The Strange Case of Origami Yoda is a charming book, which made me laugh out loud at times. The Star Wars references and drawings are very appealing, as is the main character, Tommy. The different stories do come together at the end and the reader can make their own mind up about Yoda's powers. This is a beautifully designed book which covers some life messages about tolerance and honesty in a gentle way. It reminded me a little of the 1980s He-Man cartoon series in which each episode ended with a moral message. The book also shows you how to make a simple Yoda of your own (which I haven't tried yet!). (The instructions are also on the Origami Yoda website.)