That Monster on the Block - by Sue Ganz-Schmitt (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Monster is excited to see what kind of creature will move into Vampire's old house on the block. He even starts practicing his welcome growl for the new neighbor. But when the moving truck pulls up, it's not a greedy goblin, an ogre, or a dastardly dragon that steps out. Instead, it's something even more terrifying than Monster could have imagined! Monster quickly rallies the other neighbors to unite against the new guy on the block. But what if the new neighbor isn't exactly as bad as Monster thinks? Join Monster as he confronts his fears in this charming and lighthearted look at what it means to accept others who are different from us.

Review Quotes

"This humorous, fast-paced story, narrated with clipped sentences, conveys an important, unsubtle message about the importance of accepting diversity...This entertaining tale about making new friends may also help readers conquer their fear of clowns." --Kirkus Reviews

"A closed-minded monster begins to broaden his perspective as a group of familiar Halloween characters address otherness and tolerance...With the good times rolling all around him, Monster's resolve softens, and he starts opening up to making a friend. The proceedings are energetic and fun--with onomatopoeic words and boldly hued digital artwork that toggles between spot illustrations, smaller panels, and spreads." --Publishers Weekly

"This book also has a great message about diversity. Monster can't wait to see what kind of creature will move into the newly vacant old house on the block--daydreaming about ogres and other dastardly potential menaces. Then, Monster and his neighbors are disappointed to learn the newest addition is actually a squeaky clown. Clown finds a way to bond with the rest of the neighborhood, and the story teaches empathy and kindness in a silly Halloween setting." --Book Riot