Tacky and the Haunted Igloo
(Tacky the Penguin)

Tacky and his fellow penguins have transformed their home into a haunted igloo in preparation for Halloween, but the festivities turn truly scary after the hunters from Tacky's original 1988 picture book show up, and they're hungry: "We're trick-or treatin' ghosties/ And we ain't no toothie fairies/ So give us all yer yummy treats/ Or we do something skearies." Luckily, Tacky (who had been struggling to come up with a sufficiently scary costume before the hunters arrived) shows up just in time, dressed as none other than one of the hunters. The ensuing shenanigans offer lots of laughs--after all, what better to satisfy one's appetite for schadenfreude than seeing someone scary get scared (or "skeared" as the case may be)? As ever, Tacky proves that even the unruliest of penguins can save the day. Ages 4-8. (July)

K-Gr 2--Tacky has another hit on his hands. The eccentric penguin yet again finds a way to save the day as the hunters make their way to ruin a very festive, and very haunted, Halloween. This engaging tale has a timely twist that will certainly incur some giggles as the penguins dress up as what they are most afraid of; kids will relate to fears of the dark, thunderstorms, monsters, and in Perfect's case--bubbles. Turning their fears into silly costumes will open up the possibilities for young readers to discuss their own fears and how to face them just as Tacky does. As usual, Tacky's entrance is timely and funny, as his costume turns out to be the best of all even after the penguin has a big think (aka a nap). Fans won't be disappointed in this addition, and readers not yet familiar with the character will find this to be a wondrous introduction. VERDICT A first purchase for general collections and holiday alike.--Ashley Prior, Lincoln Public Library, RI