Wanda's Monster Book

Wanda is afraid there's a monster in her closet. Her mom and dad say there's no such thing. But Granny, listening at the closet door, says, "Yep, I do believe there's one in there." Granny actually she feels sorry for the monster!

School Library Journal

K-Gr 2-Wanda is convinced that there is a monster in her closet. Her parents try to prove that there is nothing to fear, and her big brother makes fun of her. However, Granny comes in, listens at the closet door, and says, "Yep,- I do believe there's one in there." Then she appeals to her granddaughter's compassionate side, explaining that the monster must be uncomfortable in the closet with only a rubber boot on which to rest its head. The tactic works. Wanda creates a friendship with the imaginary creature, and 17 days later, as per Granny's decree, the intruder departs, with good-bye gifts. When Ruthie bewails the monster in her closet, Wanda is left to take her cousin under her wing and explain how to handle the situation. This story is a delightful variation of the hiding-monster theme popularized by Mercer Mayer's There's Something in My Attic and There's a Nightmare in My Closet (both Puffin, 1992) and James Howe's There's a Monster under My Bed (Atheneum, 1986). Spinelli adds the charming element of Wanda guiding her young relative through the fearful mysteries of childhood after vanquishing her own fears. Hayashi's pleasant watercolors, reminiscent of Mayer's style, accompany the text of this enjoyable story that will enrich most collections.-Be Astengo, Alachua County Library, Gainesville, FL Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.