Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




2012 Halloween Picture-Book Round-Up


Cover art for TEN CREEPY MONSTERS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2012

"Best for younger readers who prefer thrills and chills with an occasional giggle. (Picture book. 3-5)"
This countdown romp begins with a front-cover portrait of 10 smiling and grimacing monsters before they set forth on their perilous adventure. Read full book review >
Cover art for WAGA'S BIG SCARE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2012
by Samuel Hiti, illustrated by Samuel Hiti

"The ending may leave younger or more sensitive readers unsettled, so save this slim, adrenaline-fueled tale for those who crave a true, if ephemeral, fright. (Picture book. 5-8)"
Waga is a monster that is mean, tricky and possesses the "biggest scare." But when Waga loses that scare, the monster's very existence is in jeopardy. Read full book review >
Cover art for HALLOWEEN FOREST
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2012
by Marion Dane Bauer, illustrated by John Shelley

"Elegantly designed, this collaboration shows a great respect for children's sensibilities regarding the fine lines between fear, fun and bravery. This title should be at the top of the book pile come autumn. (Picture book. 3-6)"
Veteran Bauer sends an intrepid trick-or-treater into a deliciously creepy forest full of fantastical frights and rattling menaces. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE MONSTERS' MONSTER
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 4, 2012

"Make time to share with young monsters everywhere. (Picture book. 3-6)"
Tiny Grouch, Grump and Gloom 'n' Doom (who has two heads) continually bicker about who is the most impressive monster. When the solution they come up with turns out to be different from what they expected, a surprising but welcome lesson is eventually learned. Read full book review >
Cover art for TRICK OR TREAT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 4, 2012
by Leo Landry, illustrated by Leo Landry

"Landry has carefully crafted a seemingly simple tale about graciousness, generosity and openness to new friendships and packaged it into what is sure to be a perennial Halloween favorite. (Picture book. 3-6)"
Oliver the ghost is all prepared for his Halloween party after delivering invitations to his scariest friends--but what will he do when two young trick-or-treaters show up unexpectedly at his door? Read full book review >
Cover art for THAT ONE SPOOKY NIGHT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2012
by Dan Bar-el, illustrated by David Huyck

"A good choice for readers new to the format and those looking for a quick hit of Halloween silliness. (Graphic novel. 7-9)"
The title refers to Halloween, when the trio of stories within supposedly occurred. This graphic-novel look at seemingly disparate happenings is likely to have readers giggling more than shivering. Read full book review >