Picked this up from the library to fill out our Halloween theme, and am really glad I did. Bernadette is a monster. She's MOSTLY monsterly. But there are ways that she behaves very un-monsterly. In the end, she's able to find acceptance and be okay with being herself.In addition to being a fun and not scary monster book (which can be nice for kids who are younger or prone to fear of the dark), this story includes a really nice message about being yourself, even if it isn't what everybody expects. And the author doesn't assume kids need to be hit over the head with the message, which makes it work all the better. Any book able to incorporate Elvis is alright in my book (no pun intended! ha!). On a serious note... Bernadette is a monster who is a little different from everyone. She was "mostly monsterly" with point ears, huge eyes, frangs, claws, a tail, two foes, and even a creepy necklage! Underneath her growling and lurchying, she was truly a loving monster with a deep dark secret: She was too sweet! While other monsters practiced lurching techniques, she wanted a group hug! She gave notes that were too nice and sang love songs (this is where Elvis comes in!) while everyone else was perfecting their creepy noises! So what happens when Bernadette is about to give up? You will just have to read and find out... :o)Just kidding. She finds a way to stay on their level and reach her friends in a different way while still being herself. The illustrations are not my favorite, but a little kid would enjoy the colors, lines, and content (who doesn't love monsters at that age?!), but the message is worth while.
What do You think about Mostly Monsterly (2010)?
I like the lesson this book teaches about being true to yourself.
—semmas
