Mrs. Mo's Monster

August 15, 2014
The unflappable Mrs. Mo tames a rude monster with some patient mentoring. A knock at the door summons Mrs. Mo. In runs a horrid blue monster, tongue wagging and arms waving, anxious to "CRUNCH, MUNCH, AND CHEW," as "[t]hat's what monsters do." Mrs. Mo watches as the monster rudely crunches a paintbrush, munches a ball of string and chews a spoon. When Mrs. Mo mildly suggests that it "try something else," the monster goes on a tear, crunching and munching his way through the dark attic until he's exhausted. When he comes back downstairs, he finds Mrs. Mo painting letters on little pieces of paper and follows her as she hangs the letters out to dry and starts to make a cake. She shows him how he can help, and it's the monster who applies the final flourishes of frosting. What the duo has created are a sign and a birthday cake for Mr. Mo, who certainly seems surprised. As Mrs. Mo hugs the monster in thanks, there's a "knock knock" at the door. In run two children, looking to "BASH, SMASH, AND THROW." Hm. Even the very youngest children should understand and enjoy this droll depiction of a child's moods. Judicious use of color, various perspectives and basic shapes give the book a distinctive look. Effervescent, in an entirely understated sort of way. (Picture book. 3-6)

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October 1, 2014

PreS-K-Monsters don't have good manners. Especially the one who unexpectedly visits Mrs. Mo one day. All this hairy blue creature knows how to do is "crunch, munch, and chew. (That's what monsters do.)" Although intrigued by the activities Mrs. Mo tries to engage him in, the monster can't break from his normal behaviors. Finally, with patience and persistence (and some frustration), she convinces him to help her get ready for a very special surprise. It is amazing what a monster can really do! Beavis's debut picture book has a short and catchy text, with a good balance of repetition. The illustrations are bright, exciting, and funny, depicting Mrs. Mo refusing to give up on her newest addition, and children will appreciate the clever twist at the end. Ideal for hesitant and avid readers alike.-Megan Egbert, Meridian Library District, ID

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