Monster Hands

Among the titles Milo reads one night, one is "about a monster under the bed. Milo should not have read that book." Frightened, he uses a flashlight to signal Mel, his best friend who lives across the street. Through their facing windows, the two use ASL to communicate about Milo's fears. Mel suggests that Milo use "monster hands"--vertically stacked palms facing each other, fingers curled--to create shadows that will "ROAR," "CHOMP," and "LAUGH" the monster away. Kane and debut author McMillan build suspense with each of the duo's attempts to banish the monster, creating a lively collaboration that gives way to a tender gesture between the friends. MBD employs vibrant gradient hues to create looming shadows and dynamically highlight ASL signs, some portrayed in full. Milo has pale skin and brown hair; Mel is portrayed with brown skin and brown hair. Ages 3-7. (May)

PreS-Gr 2--Right before bedtime, a young boy named Milo makes the mistake of reading a scary story about a monster under the bed. Too frightened to sleep, Milo signals to his friend Mel, who lives next door, for help. Communicating through their windows and using American Sign Language (ASL), Mel suggests using the titular "monster hands," to banish Milo's monster. By stacking their hands and curling their fingers, the duo use their hands to create fearsome shadows that "Roar!," "Chomp!," and "Laugh!," at the monster. The pair emerge victorious and share a hug. Not only are readers treated to a relatable bedtime excursion, but they will also learn the signs for several terms, which are presented organically and naturally throughout the story. The illustrations are equally captivating, in a nighttime palette of blue and purple that depicts the monsters as somewhat eerie, but never anything terrifying. VERDICT A success on every level and a welcome addition to all collections.--Olivia Gorecke