Picture Book
October 2017


This is a picture book about Maurice - a beast! I think he could be loosely interpreted as an animal, as animals are, technically, beasts. Maurice could be an undiscovered species, especially in a child's mind where there is a fine line of what's real and imaginary. Plus, I really enjoy the lesson and meaning. I'm adding this to the list because it teaches us how even though we're all different, we each have talents we can use in a different way. We don't have to be the same to be or feel important/special. Maurice continues to be himself and is eventually accepted for who he is, not having to change for anyone.

This book is absolutely adorable! Maurice is a beast unlike other beasts. He is kind to other beings, he has a melodic voice, he likes organic snacks. Which are all wonderful, unless you're a beast! His parents are worried about him. They even enrolled him into a special school to teach him beastly skills. Maurice doesn't want to be a disappointment, but he also just wants to be free to be himself. He decides to attempt to go to the school his parents have enrolled him in. At every turn, he is not matching up to the other beasts. Where they are fearsome and brutish, he is sweet and delightful. Where they are messy, he is neat and polite. Maurice is not sure if he will ever fit in. Until one day an unknown creature enters the school. All the other beasts are unsure how to react. Will Maurice know what to do? Will the other creatures accept him after all? You'll have to read this book to find out. ( )

I am officially in love. Maruice is anything but a beast. No matter how hard he tries or how many lessons he takes. The story is lovely, but it wouldn’t be anything without the amazing illustrations. I would hang every page of this book on my wall as art. It is beautiful and I want a PRINT! ( )