Mr. Beast by James Sage, illustrated by Russell Ayto 2005
Charlie borrows a big frying pan from a mysterious Mr. Beast so his mom can make him sugar doughnuts. He promises to bring Mr. Beast the pan back filled to the brim with doughnuts. But his craving is too strong and the pan is returned empty. Mr. Beast declares that he will eat Charlie up that very night. The suspense grows as Charlie secures doors and windows, hoping to keep Mr. Beast out. As we hear Mr. Beast approach Charlie’s room, we see a tiny smile wipe all fear off of Charlie’s face. He knows Mr. Beast quite well, and this is a game they play often, even though Mom tries to bring order to the house.
The illustrations by Ayto include menacing shadows to heighten the drama at each turn of the page. The love between father and son is obvious in this humorous twist on nighttime monsters.
Appropriate for ages 4-8
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