FICTION

The Problem with Not Being Scared of Kids

by Dan RICHARDS
illus. by Robert Neubecker. 32p. Boyds Mills. Sept. 2015. Tr $16.95. ISBN 9781629791029. LC 2014958540.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 1—In this follow up to The Problem with Not Being Scared of Monsters (Boyds Mills, 2014), Richards gives the monsters a chance to tell their story. These silly-looking creatures want to make some friends, but sadly, children dash away, scared, before they get to know them. Games become lonely, interests go unshared, and worst of all, Halloween's a bust. Even after consulting self-help books, the monsters have the same results: kids just can't see beyond their differences. Crazy colors set the monsters apart from the children and their relatively more muted hues. It takes just one child to change things. One boy reaches out and encourages the octopuslike monster to join in the fun. Pair this title with Richards' previous book to explore the challenges and rewards of friendship.
VERDICT Though not as effective as Peter Brown's You Will Be My Friend (Little Brown, 2011), this title will appeal to a younger audience.
Reviewed by Rachel Forbes, Oakville Public Library, Ontario, Canada
A handful of adorably hapless monsters try to befriend humans, growing increasingly discouraged as each ploy reaps only fear. The simple, sympathetic text is enhanced by joke-filled illustrations that show the monsters attempting crafts, snacks, and playtime with hilariously unsuccessful results (the eyeball ice-cream cone is a particularly nice touch). The happy ending, though unsurprising, feels earned.
 , Aug 01, 2015

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