Wolf’s Coming! By Joe Kulka 2007
The dark, almost menacing, cover of this book may be off-putting, but don’t pass it by. Animal’s hurry and scurry through the forest as a wolf garbed in a suit menacingly lurks in the dark woods. The terrified expressions of the forest creatures assists in the mounting suspense felt throughout the story. The surprise that waits at the end will very likely shock the reader, and wolf as well.
Appropriate for ages 3-7
Roller Coaster by Marla Frazee 2006
A common scene at an amusement park sets up this story. The line of people is long, and pulsing with anticipation. As they draw nearer to the daunting roller coaster, some opt out. But a brave little girl and her Dad stand their ground and go on an adventure they will never forget, and might possibly repeat.
The emotion that oozes out of each person in Frazee’s artwork is astounding. You will want to laugh when the big burly men get scared on the roller coaster, and bite your nails in trepidation for those who are obviously petrified. The humor and suspense depicted here are unforgettable.
Appropriate for ages 3-6
Oliver Finds His Way by Phyllis Root, illustrated by Christopher Denise 2002
Oliver’s world is cozy and safe until he decides to chase a yellow leaf floating by. The illustrations become darker as Oliver wanders away from his parents and deeper into the woods. His distracted thoughts turn into downright fear. He begins to cry, but decides that a bear “Roar” would be much more effective. The voice, and love, of his parents guides him back home.
The endpapers cradle artwork from Denise that is so warm and inviting I want to be transported immediately. This story deals with safety and fear in a sweet, and memorable way.
Appropriate for ages 4-8
Sophie and the Next-Door Monsters by Chris Case 2008
Sophie enjoys playing on her own, but when her mom insists that they invite the new neighbors over she views the next-door monsters as an interruption. She puts on protective gear in case they decide to kidnap her. To her astonishment, the youngest monster Charlie makes her laugh and even has magical powers. Sophie’s cat follows them around with a perturbed look on its face, especially when Charlie turns him into a potato. Charlie’s expression as he tries on Sophie’s hats is silly, and endearing.
Case uses a subtle voice to remind children that meeting new people can bring very pleasant surprises.
Appropriate for ages 4-8
Rosa’s Room by Barbara Bottner, illustrated by Beth Spiegel 2004
Rosa and her mom are moving to a new house, and her empty bedroom emphasizes the loneliness she feels. Each day of the week she contributes special items to her room, but there is something (or someone) missing. She then meets and invites a new friend to enjoy the space with her. The happiness they share together is obvious in their exuberant faces.
The uncertainties of moving can cause stress, but there is great joy in making a place your own, and sharing it with someone special. Spiegel's illustrations are soft and comforting as Rosa eases into her new surroundings and her loneliness recedes.
Appropriate for ages 4-8
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
Jumpy Jack & Googily by Meg Rosoff, illustrated by Sophie Blackall 2008
Jumpy Jack is a nervous snail, who is very scared of monsters. Lucky for him, his blue goblin shaped friend Googily has a kind heart, and tries to calm his fears. Jumpy Jack is positive that a monster lurks around every corner, and Googily checks just to make sure. Both friends fail to see that a monster is indeed in their midst in the form of Googily. Rosoff addresses fear in a light hearted manner. This story could pave the way for a wonderful conversation about the irrational fears that children sometimes experience.
Blackall’s whimsical artwork portrays Googily, in his dapper attire, as a timid and beloved monster friend.
Appropriate for ages 4-8
I Need My Monster by Amanda Noll, illustrated by Howard McWilliam 2009
