Monster Friends
(A Graphic Novel)
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- $10.99
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- $10.99
Publisher Description
Two friends: one big, one little. One old, one young. One grumpy, one cheerful. Both: MONSTERS! From the author of Crabapple Trouble comes a sweet and fun-filled chapter-book graphic novel, with a charming cast of adorable monsters.
Reggie's plan is to spend the whole summer brooding over his latest adventure gone wrong. But his friendly and curious neighbor, Emily, won't let him sit alone and unhappy in his house forever! Despite their differences, these two monsters make the perfect pair of explorers. And with a map to make, a beach party to plan, and a sea monster to find, Reggie will have to learn to talk about his feelings and let new friends in!
With bright, gorgeous art by Kaeti Vandorn, Monster Friends features the cutest, fuzziest monsters you've ever seen.
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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.
