Gr 2–5—Following a frightening experience exploring a cave, Reggie, a shape-shifting monster, withdraws from the world, but everything changes when he meets a new pal while house-sitting. Vandorn's expressive illustrations bring
to life a sweetly surreal setting, and her gentle story is threaded with a subtle yet potent message: With a good friend
by one's side, even the most daunting problems can be resolved.

Cute book on anyone being friends, teacher readers about the importance of excepting others no matter what they are or where they come from, and that anyone can be their friends. ( )

My review of this book can be found on my YouTube Vlog at:

https://youtu.be/5IUzgc8H4Lw

Enjoy! ( )

Absolutely delightful! Minimal text give the wonderful illustrations room to tell the story. Great positive messages about friendship and open-mindedness. ( )

Reggie is house-sitting while his friends/relatives go on summer vacation; he's also sort of in hiding, having had a bad experience adventuring, but not yet being able to explain to his adventuring partner Clovis that he's afraid of caves now. Then Reggie meets exuberant, enthusiastic, lively Emily, who lives in the forest with her parents and sisters. Reggie and Emily become friends, each drawing the other a little out of their comfort zone and giving them another perspective. They also meet lots of neighbors and invite them to a beach party - and a sea serpent named Selma is invited, too.

Emily and Reggie are original creations, friendly little monsters who can stretch and change size. The color palette starts dark (indoors/underground), but most of the story takes place under sunny skies. I found the story a little confusing at first but ended up liking it a lot.

"The world sure is filled with strange things." (Reggie, 147)

"It takes a lot of practice to be brave." (Emily, 194)

Back matter: Let's Draw Monsters! (shape design, textures and patterns) ( )