TEDDY VS. THE SNUGGLY MENACE

When Teddy pursues his cherished cat and source of comfort, Mr. Fuzzikins, into the dark woods, he’s pitted against his own fears—as well as hostile squirrels, fields of bones, and other terrifying surprises.

In this third series entry, Teddy continues to struggle with his rampant anxiety. For starters, he’s convinced that his classmate’s “snuggly pupper,” a Corgi named Hashbrown, is out to get him—staring “with the searing intensity of a HATEFUL CORGISH SOUL!” But the mild reaction of his friends to this news sparks more of Teddy’s hysterical meltdowns and unkind words. His overwrought tempests may wear on readers, but his friends show commendable patience. As Shane, Hashbrown’s owner, says, “We’re friends, Teddy. But I still think we might need an apology.” They also readily provide support when Teddy stumbles off into the magical woods after his errant cat. As it turns out, when a giant shark-o-spider attacks, Mr. Fuzzikins—or “Hunter Hollowfang,” as the suddenly loquacious kitty prefers to be called—isn’t the one who most needs rescuing. Hallett’s lavish illustrations dish up arrays of creatures, both common and nightmarish, as well as a diverse cast of Ravensbarrow residents. White-presenting Teddy, who’s shadowed by a small, sketchier image representing his nagging fears, generally bears exaggerated expressions of rage, remorse, or bulging-eyed terror. Ultimately, he comes through with a selfless act of courage that may hearten children who struggle with big feelings of their own.

More about the emotional roller coaster than the monsters, but still fun.