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2012 Halloween Picture-Book Round-Up

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Cover art for IT'S HALLOWEEN NIGHT!
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 1, 2012
IT'S HALLOWEEN NIGHT!
by Jennifer O'Connell, illustrated by Jennifer Morris
"Get ready for enthusiastic participation, and do not forget to find the small spider placed on each spread. (Picture book. 2-4)"
Looking for a simple title about Halloween for the youngest readers? Rhyming text sets up an interactive guessing game that may just be the treat to share with the toddler and early-preschool set. Read full book review >
Cover art for SKELETON CAT
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 1, 2012
SKELETON CAT
by Kristyn Crow, illustrated by Dan Krall
" Applause for this very silly and slightly spooky cool cat that follows his own beat! (Picture book. 4-6)"
Rhyming verse unfolds in hip-hop rhythm to describe the humorous antics of a most likable, bony feline in this tale of pursuing a dream no matter what. Read full book review >
Cover art for MONSTER MASH
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 1, 2012
MONSTER MASH
by Bobby Pickett, illustrated by David Catrow
"Reserve this for older preschoolers and primary-grade children who may need a fun outlet for candy-fueled Halloween craziness. Clever and odd--but ultimately not essential. (Picture book. 4-7)"
Luring readers with a golden, holographic display type for the title and a grooving green monster on the cover, Catrow pairs his freakishly imaginative artwork with the lyrics to the perennial favorite. Read full book review >
Cover art for HUBBLE BUBBLE GRANNY TROUBLE
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 10, 2012
HUBBLE BUBBLE GRANNY TROUBLE
by Tracey Corderoy, illustrated by Joe Berger
"Nestled among the burping bats and mischievous frogs, a lesson on appreciating differences is charmingly presented. Let this tale work its magic throughout the year. (Picture book. 3-6) "
As they say, be careful what you wish for… Read full book review >
Cover art for BEDTIME FOR MONSTERS
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 17, 2012
Kirkus Star BEDTIME FOR MONSTERS
by Ed Vere, illustrated by Ed Vere
"Share this cartoonish, mock-horror tale with the not-so-sleepy at bedtime or rely upon it as a superb storytime choice where all can have fun participating in the hilarious sound effects. (Picture book. 3-6)"
"Do YOU ever WONDER if somewhere, not too far away, there might be… / MONSTERS?" Whether readers do or not, it is hard to resist being swept up in the silly suspense of possibly becoming the target for this monster's hungry attention. Read full book review >
Cover art for FRANKENSTEIN
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 17, 2012
FRANKENSTEIN
by Rick Walton, illustrated by Nathan Hale
"Whether young readers recognize the relationship to the Parisian version or not, adults will appreciate the clever yet silly send-up. Most children, however, will see this as just another funny monster book. (Picture book. 4-7)"
Just in time for Halloween, Walton and Hale (Twelve Bots of Christmas, 2010) combine their talents to become "Ludworst Bemonster," author of a droll parody of Ludwig Bemelmans' Madeline. Read full book review >