Monster Friends

Cyclops Reggie, a small, shape-shifting monster (imagine an UglyDoll as interpreted by Miyazaki) is taking some time after a frightening adventure with his friend Clovis leaves him feeling isolated and unsettled ("Surprises aren't fun all the time"). On his own for the summer while caring for his cousins' house, he reluctantly enters a conversation with Emily, a gregarious rabbit-like creature who is also a good listener. With comic enthusiasm, Emily helps introduce Reggie to new adventures and new friends--sweet-faced beasts including tigers and owls, and a golden glowing sea serpent (characters introduced in Vandorn's Crabapple Trouble also make cameo appearances). The color palette is clear and bright, and the panels' irregular outlines enliven their carefully composed, easily legible interiors. Vandorn effectively employs a pastoral seaside landscape to slow the story's rhythm and visually work through Reggie's internal struggles and growing confidence. Though the ending comes a bit abruptly, this appealing, candy-colored treat offers a winning friendship and gentle encouragement: "It takes a lot of practice to be brave." Ages 5-8. (June)

Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 2-5--Reggie, a shape-shifting young monster, who most often appears as a brown cyclops, is more than happy to spend his summer in the cozy home he's house sitting for his cousins. After a traumatic experience in a cave with a fellow explorer, grumpy Reggie wants a bit of quiet. It's not long before he meets Emily, a rabbitlike monster with the boundless enthusiasm of a large puppy. Emily takes a reluctant Reggie out to the seaside and into the village and introduces him to her sisters and loving parents. While Reggie gains trust in his new friends, he also helps Emily with sibling squabbles and insecurities. Additional characters include tigers and dinosaurs and a sea monster, all of whom are friendly in their own ways. Reggie learns how to deal with his fears, and Emily gets a chance to prove herself to her sisters. Vandorn's endearing illustrations bring to life a lively and serene world. Subtle details add to the experience--for instance, dialogue bubbles are outlined in different colors depending on who is speaking. The very end of the story necessitates flipping back to the beginning, but it's a minor quibble. VERDICT Readers will wish that all monsters were this lovely. A winning tale of an unlikely friendship that will appeal to imaginative kids who love to daydream about adventures.--Gretchen Hardin, Bee Cave P.L., TX

Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"A winning tale of an unlikely friendship that will appeal to imaginative kids who love to daydream about adventures." —School Library Journal, starred review

"This appealing, candy-colored treat offers a winning friendship and gentle encouragement." —Publishers Weekly, starred review

"A sweetly encouraging look at the way friendship can mend heart and soul." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review