In this tale, told in
rhyme, Dahl Quarray introduces us to a little boy who
learns to triumph over adversity and to remain true
to himself. Arliss has a speech impediment that attracts
teasing and bullying from his schoolmates. He decides
to defend himself by donning a suit of armor. All the
while he learns to fit inside his own personality instead
of trying to fit in with the crowd. He remains Arliss
throughout his school years.
His determination to be
himself eventually is rewarded when a lovely surprise
named Ariane from Milan steps off the school bus. Despite
much competition for her attention among his peers,
including the teasers, Ariane chooses to sit with Arliss,
because he is a person who stands “on his own.”
The tale has more rewards
in store for Arliss and, through perseverance and integrity,
he discovers that life is more beautiful when you enjoy
it as yourself, not as somebody else. |
