Halloween, 1999
The following reviews were presented in our 1999 Halloween feature.
Reviews
Albert's Halloween: The Case of the Stolen Pumpkins
Leslie Tryon
It is Halloween night and the pumpkins have disappeared from Patsy Pig's Pleasant Valley Pumpkin Patch. They must be returned before any Halloween festivities can begin. Chief Inspector Albert has just been given this top priority mystery to solve and immediately summons his colleagues, Miss Maple, Shamrock Homes and Sam Slade in hopes that they will be able to assist him with this urgent case. Mystery and mischief abound in this wonderful book. Clever rhyming clues lead the detectives from one place to another in search of the missing pumpkins and more clues. The trick is to find all of the clues and figure out how to put them together to reach the final solution. Readers beware! If your eyes are sharp enough you might solve this fascinating mystery without all of the clues but what fun would that be? 1998, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Ages 5 to 8, $16.00. Reviewer: Trina Heidt
ISBN: 0-689-81136-5
Aunt Eater's Mystery Halloween
Doug Cushman
Illustrated by Doug Cushman
Children will have fun helping Aunt Eater the anteater solve four mysteries in this holiday book, which is part of the publisher's series entitled "An I Can Read Book." The mysteries are connected to Aunt Eater's activities on Halloween night as she sets out for a party and at the party itself. She encounters a monster, a ghost, music coming from a piano without a piano player, and a mysterious dance partner. Two of the stories are quite silly, but the colorful illustrations throughout the book will appeal to young children. While some Halloween books are positively gruesome and inappropriate for young children, this one is rather gentle by comparison and is fine for early readers. The author has written other Aunt Eater mystery books; kids who like the character will be able to help her solve other mysteries. 1998, HarperCollins, Ages 4 to 8, $14.95. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati
ISBN: 0-06-027803-X
ISBN: 0-06-027804-8
The Battlefield Ghost
Margery Cuyler
Illustrated by Arthur Howard
John (age 9) and his sister Lisa (Age 10) move into an old Princeton, NJ house and find it haunted by a Hessian soldier. The soldier was separated from his beloved horse in the Battle of Princeton immediately after Washington crossed the Delaware River. According to the legend provided by his teacher, the ghost is said to manifest itself on January 3rd, the anniversary of the battle, so the children wait for him. Because ghosts can't leave the property where they died without the help of humans, the Hessian can't rest until his horse ghost is lured back . Cuyler works in a fair amount of history-the Hessians, the battle, the times-without breaking plot stride and the book's conclusion is believable and still unknown to any but the two children. An illustration in brushy pencil-like line appears every chapter or two to lighten the text and Cuyler adds an historical note. Useful in Revolutionary War studies where teachers need a lighter, less challenging but still exciting book, for fourth or fifth grade readers, the book also stands on its own as a good mystery and an exciting read. l999, Scholastic, Ages 7 to 10, $15.95. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-590-10848-4
A Beastly Story
Bill Martin Jr.
Illustrated by Steven Kellogg
Two well known names in children's books have pooled their talents in this book that features four mice named Silly, Lily, Willy and Nilly. These furry creatures, who can also be identified by the colors of their shirts and the numbers printed on them, set out to explore a house in the dark, dark wood. When their candles cast light, the dark objects show their true colors. They find a dark green bottle and suddenly a scary beast emerges and flies off. The mice give chase and much to everyone's relief discover that it was not a real monster but just a prank. Sharp-eyed kid may pick up a few clues from the opening endpapers. Kellogg has added lots of extra touches with his illustrations and even the type puts emphasis on the colors. 1999, Silver Whistle/Harcourt Brace, Ages 3 to 6, $16.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-15-201683-X
Beneath the Ghost Moon: A Halloween Tale
Jane Yolen
Illustrated by Laurel Molk
This narrative poem is perfect for reading aloud. It tells the story of a group of mean crimson and green creepy crawlies who wreck the beautiful Halloween costumes on Ghost Eve. Led by a small white mouse, the other mice work together to take back their home and the night and soundly defeat the creepy crawlies. In their armor of soda pop tops, the mice then dance under the Ghost moon to tambourine and clarinet music. Young children will enjoy the lovely language and colorful full-page whimsical illustrations about one of the most popular holidays of the year. 1998 (orig. 1994), Little Brown, Ages 2 to 6, $5.95. Reviewer: Wendy Pollock-Gilson
ISBN: 0-316-97007-7
The Body Snatcher
Robert Louis Stevenson
Adapted by Monica Kulling
One of the "Random House Chillers," The Body Snatcher is a classic story of theft and deceit that has been rewritten for a younger audience. This version is one that can be used by children or newly literate adults. Words in the text are not too long or difficult, yet do not detract from the reading level or story. Other books in this series, which provide youngsters an opportunity to be exposed to some of literature's greatest mystery and suspense stories, include Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Frankenstein, The Phantom of the Opera, and Edgar Allan Poe's Tales of Terror. Any of the books in this series would also do well with upper elementary aged readers and older kids. 1998, Random House, Ages 8 up, $3.99. Reviewer: Ru Story-Huffman
ISBN: 0-679-88625-7
Dracula Steps Out
Michael Ratnett
Illustrated by June Goulding
Things that pop out and give more of a laugh than a scare are found throughout this clever pop-up book. Dracula is looking for something tasty to eat and his hunt takes him through the spooky woods and into the scary city. Along the way he gives plenty of people a real fright. There are slides, doors to open, and plenty of corny jokes. Kids will find out that Dracula really has a soft spot a sleeps with a coffin full of soft comforting stuffed toys. A fairly sturdy book and a delightful Halloween treat. 1998, Orchard, Ages 3 to 6, $15.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-531-30100-1
Dragon's Halloween
Dav Pilkey
In three stories that center around Halloween, Dragon finds himself in several amusing and scary predicaments. When he goes to find a very large Halloween pumpkin, he is too late and has to settle for six small ones. He builds a monster jack-o'-lantern that even frightens him. At the Halloween party, his unplanned costume change scares his friends, but when they learn it is Dragon inside the pumpkin head almost everyone is amused. In the final story, Dragon is very hungry and while walking through the woods he hears a rumbling sound. Thanks to squirrel, Dragon learns that it is his own tummy making all the sounds. He races home and prepares a giant Halloween feast just for him. 1995 (orig. 1993), Orchard, Ages 6 to 8, $4.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-531-05990-1
ISBN: 0-531-08590-2
ISBN: 0-531-07069-7
The Eyes of the Killer Robot
John Bellairs
"Watch his eyes," a dad tells his son about a pitcher. Well, you had better watch your eyes before they become the pitcher's in this gothic tale. In true Poe fashion, this modern horror tale turns baseball from pastime to ghost time. A mad (in more ways than one) scientist has returned to Duston Heights to exact his revenge on Johnny Dixon's grandfather. The only problem is he uses Johnny to accomplish it. The scientist, Evaristus Sloane, has created a pitching robot that uses human eyes and black magic to become almost human. His initial robot was thwarted by Johnny's granddad 50 years earlier. Now he is back and ready to out-pitch a pro player for a ten-thousand-dollar payoff. Sloane needs Johnny's eyes and a little black magic to finish his project. The robot is uncontrollable and it is up to Johnny and his friends Fergie and the professor to foil the plan and put the killer robot to rest for good. I hated to put this book down. If you have a thriller book lover in your house or classroom, this is a must-read. This title is part of the "Johnny Dixon Series." 1998, Puffin Books, Ages 8 up, $4.99. Reviewer: Scott S. Floyd
ISBN: 0-14-130062-0
Frank Was a Monster Who Wanted to Dance
Keith Graves
Frank is most definitely a monster. Ugly as can be, his head has a zipper running around it, his hands and legs are bones, and his tongue lolls out of his 4-toothed (maybe five toothed) mouth. His room is a shambles and his cat looks like no cat on this earth. Frank is one happy monster. And he can also dance. In fact he loves to dance. So he dresses up in his mustard-colored coat and his top hat, he grabs his cane and drives to the theater. But there is a small problem; as he dances, he falls apart. Literally. Written in rollicking verse, and illustrated in an oddball style that kids will love, this is a lighthearted romp. 1999, Chronicle Books, Ages 4 to 9, $12.95. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
ISBN: 0-8118-2169-2
Frankenfrog
Kim Kennedy
Illustrated by Doug Kennedy
Dr. Franken was famous for many strange discoveries such as closet-monster detector mad the hyper-sizing tonic. One day when he wasn't paying attention a fly landed in the tonic and suddenly it became Hyperfly. The fly was captured and locked in the cellar but that didn't stop it from multiplying. What to do? The solution create a giant frog to get rid of those pesky little flies and Hyperfly. Well things have a way of getting out of hand and even though it all ends well, Dr. Franken has quite a scare along the way. 1999, Hyperion, Ages 4 to 7, $15.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-7868-0373-8
Froggy's Halloween
Jonathan London
Illustrated by Frank Remkiewicz
Halloween is approaching and Froggy can't decide what he should be. How about Super Frog flying through the sky, or Ghost Frog haunting friends and family, or better yet, what about dressing as Vampire Frog? Well after a week of pondering and rejecting a variety of costumes, Froggy decides to become a Frog Prince. He really looks cute and Frogilina finds him irresistible. After a narrow escape from his amorous pursuer, Froggy finishes up his trick-or-treating, but when he gets home his finds that his sword has cut a hole in his bag and it is empty. Never fear Mother saves the day. Another delightful addition to the Froggy tales. 1999, Viking, Ages 2 to 6, $15.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-670-88449-9
Georgie and the Robbers
Robert Bright
Georgies is a friendly ghost and doesn't think about scaring anyone. He lives in the Whittaker's attic among a collection of old their old furnishings. One night when the Whittakers are out for the evening, robbers appear and steal all of the antiques. Georgie and his animal friends manage to scare them and run the scoundrels into the arms of the village policeman. The story illustrated with blue pencil drawings is a charmer and should entertain another generation of young kids. 1999 (orig. 1963), Farrar Staus Giroux, Ages 3 to 6, $4.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-374-42542-6
Ghost Trap
Barbara M. Joosse
Illustrated by Sue Truesdell
Willie and Lucy's friendship is almost disrupted when Willie's previous best friend, Kyle, moves back to town. The two compete for Willie's attention. Things get interesting when Kyle determines that his new house is haunted! The three must work together to trap the ghost. The mystery is fairly heavily foreshadowed, so the ending was easy to guess, but getting there was still fun. The pen and ink drawings add a dollop of humor. 1998, Clarion/Houghton Mifflin, Ages 7 to 10, $15.00. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-395-66587-6
The Ghost of Captain Briggs
Mary LaBatt
Two girls on a family vacation discover a ghost in the old house the family has rented. Suspecting pirate treasure because of a legend, they explore the grounds but run afoul of the unfriendly owner of the property. Meanwhile, warning notes appear, they discover a tunnel, and doors squeak. The lame ending offers little satisfaction but the uncovering of the owner's true identity. Did we mention Sam the dog who "talks" into Jennie's thoughts and sniffs out clues? Silly, but for those younger readers who really don't want to be scared, the book provides a pleasant if tame mystery read. 1999, Kids Can Press, Ages 7 to 10, $4.95. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 1-55074-636-7
Goblins in Green
Nicholas Heller
Illustrated by Jos. A. Smith
A peek into the attic by a boy and girl reveal a cadre of green goblins trying on a variety of clothing and other items that have been stored there. The goblins are presented in alphabetical order and are arrayed in such items as denim earmuffs, an emerald frock, a patchwork quilt and some tulip underwear. The alliterations created with the name of the goblin and most verbs and adjectives will broaden the imagination and vocabulary of the young reader. Goblins try on clothing with an exuberance and abandon unknown to humans. Smith illustrates them in humorous poses that are sure to bring giggles from the preschool and early primary ages. Their expressions are varied and full of emotion. This is just right for those young children who want to be scared but in a humorous way. Anxious to get rid of the monsters in the attic? If one is too noisy peering into the attic, they will immediately disappear. Imaginative fun not only for Halloween, but year-round. 1999, (orig. 1995), Mulberry Paperback Books/ Greenwillow Books, Ages 4 to 8, $4.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-688-12802-5
ISBN: 0-688-12803-3
ISBN: 0-688-17058-7
Great Ghost Stories
Selected and illustrated by Barry Moser
This is a collection of thirteen (appropriately enough) spooky tales that are guaranteed to send shivers down even the bravest spines! It includes the greatest storytellers of our time, from Bram Stoker's "The Judge's House," H. G. Wells's "The Red Room," Madeleine L'Engle's "Poor Little Saturday," to Joyce Carol Oates' "The Others." Barry Moser's eerie and compelling watercolor paintings accompany the stories. Adolescents who enjoy tales of the weird will enjoy this book! A brief biography of each of the authors is included. 1998, William Morrow, Ages 12 up, $22.00. Reviewer: Cheryl Peterson
ISBN: 0-688-14587-6
Happy Halloween for theose who may experiencing their first Halloween outing
Halloween Day
Anne Rockwell
Pictures by Lizzy Rockwell
Making a costume and getting dressed for the Halloween parade is great fun for young kids. Each spread shows on of the kids from the class in his or her costume and the facing page shows how it was made or the source for the inspiration. As the class gets ready for the parade they notice that their teacher is missing, when the parade starts a beautiful fairy godmother joins them. Do you suppose it is Mrs. Madoff? Bright illustrations of a n ethnically diverse group of kids having a wonderful time on Halloween make this book a winner for classroom or home. 1997, HarperCollins, Ages 2 to 5, $5.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-06-027567-7
ISBN: 0-06-443589-X
The Halloween House
Erica Silverman
Pictures by Jon Agee
Kids familiar with the counting rhyme Over in the Meadow will surely enjoy this spoof. Two escaped convicts dressed in red stripes have taken refuge on Halloween night in an old house, but it turns out they are not alone. Werewolves, vampires, bats, ghosts, witches and the like seem to be everywhere. The repetitive refrain counts down from ten until morning arrives and all the spooky creatures have disappeared. The convicts have had such a fright that they are only too happy to return to their prison cells. 1997, Sunburst/Farrar Straus Giroux, Ages 3 to 8, $4.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-374-42871-9
Halloween Frights
Judith Moffatt
There really isn't much here that will frighten kids. The board book is filled with scenes created from cut paper collages and they are bright and attractive. The text sets the scene with nights getting cooler, jack-o'-lanterns lighting porches, kids in costumes and running around on Halloween collecting their treats. The added feature are the glow in the dark spots on the pages. They require charging with a bright light for a few minutes. A flashlight can be used to recharge the pages. Part of the "Night Glow Board Books" series. 1999, Little Simon, Ages 2 to 5, $4.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-689-82270-7
Halloween Pie
Michael O. Tunnell
Illustrated by Kevin O'Malley
Old witch made a scrumptious pumpkin pie. Its tantalizing aroma wafted out the window across the lawn and over the graveyard. The smell aroused the vampire, ghoul, ghost, banshee, zombie and skeleton who all just had to follow that smell in hopes of getting some pie. Their noses brought them to the witches house and soon they had devoured the pie. Was the poor old witch going to miss out on her special treat? Amusing more than scary o il wash and ink illustrations fill the pages of this Halloween tale. 1999, Lothrop, Ages 4 to 7, $15.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-688-16804-3
ISBN: 0-688-16805-1
The Halloween Play
Felicia Bond
Roger and his classmates are practicing for the upcoming Halloween play. They want everything to be right when their parents and friends come to the school auditorium. Roger has a small but very important part. He waited patiently backstage and then made his grand entrance. He really was the center of attention and later that night Dad photographed Roger in his fabulous costume from the play. Stage struck youngsters should enjoy this sweet story with mice as the star performers. Note, this book was previously issued as The Halloween Performance. 1999 (orig. 1983), HarperCollins, Ages 3 to 6, $8.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-06-028684-9
Happy Halloween Biscuit!
Alyssa Satin Capucilli
Pictures by Pat Schories
Biscuit and his mistress are getting ready for Halloween, although Biscuit seems bent on geeting into mischief. He pulls the straw stuffed pants off the scarecrow while they are in the pumpkin patch and manages to scare the cat with his own special Halloween costume. Later the kids and their dogs go trick or treating and grandma and grandpa even have a treat for Biscuit and his friend Puddles. A simple story that really is comprised of vignettes of things that happened in Biscuit's Halloween Day. The paintings are soft and sweet with one girl costumed as a princess and the other as an angle. 1999, HarperFestival, Ages 2 to 6, $6.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-694-01220-3
The Haunted Hotel
Ron Roy
Illustrated by John Steven Gurney
Like the adult author Sue Grafton, Roy fashions a mystery story for each letter of the alphabet. In this case, the three sleuths (two boys and a girl) uncover a plot to force an elderly couple to sell their valuable hotel because it is haunted and no guests will remain where there are ghosts. The plot unfolds pleasantly and with no scary parts, the ghosts turn out to be actors who think they are trying out for a movie, and the bad guys are three greedy realtors. Frequent illustrations, plenty of white space on the page, a continuing cast of characters, and small humorous touches make this entry in the series readable if not especially memorable. "A to Z Mysteries" series. 1999, Random House, Ages 7 to 9, $11.99 and $3.99. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-679-99079-8
ISBN: 0-679-89079-3
Here Comes Halloween
Becki Ward
Illustrated by Mike Dodd
The focus of this story is the "trick" part of "trick-or-treating." Matt and Molly Mouse travel from house to house on Halloween night. Each page has at least two flaps to explore, and the text asks the reader questions which can only be answered by exposing the hidden areas. The illustrations are richly detailed, with beautiful, seasonal borders. At each stop on their journey, Matt and Molly hope to play a trick. At Badger's house, they get their chance as he has forgotten to provide treats for them. At the end, however, we learn that the best trick has been played on Matt and Molly themselves. 1998, The Templar Company, Ages 4 to 7, $8.95. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-316-92481-4
Here There Be Ghosts
Jane Yolen
Illustration by David Wilgus
"Ghost. So near the word guest, yet uninvited to our converse, we shook with the raw intrusion." From the opening poem in this mostly prose collection, these words capture the essence of the fascination we have with specters from the beyond. Yolen spins these ghostly tales with her customary ease, playing skillfully on the subtleties of fear. Not all the ghosts are terrifying either - each has personality, uniqueness. A delightful post-script to the other "Here There Be..." books (Dragons, Unicorns, and Witches) in what has, happily for Yolen's fans, become a series. Teachers of writing should appreciate the author's background note for each piece, which helps render transparent the process of writing. 1998, Harcourt Brace, Ages 10 up, $19.00. Reviewer: Uma Krishnaswami
ISBN: 0-15-201566-3
The House of Boo
J. Patrick Lewis
Illustrated by Katya Krénina
This poem tells the story of three brave trick-or-treaters, "two river girls, a boy of ten," on Halloween night as they approach the House of Boo. The reader follows their steps as they stealthily sneak up to the window to spy on the ghost of Boo Scoggins. The poem incorporates a plethora of words associated with this holiday, such as "The crooked fence post warned: Beware! Misfortune follows fools who dare/Somewhere a cat unwound a whine/That gave the children such a scare." The full-page illustrations on a black background and the ghostly brushwork in gouache using muted tones of pale greens, grays and browns maintain the atmospheric quality of the text. The figurative images float from page to page as the story unfolds. Older readers will have no trouble reading through the seventeen verses, as the type is clear and legible; younger readers will enjoy the illustrations as the poem is read aloud. This is an excellent picture book both in terms of the poem and the illustrations for those children who want to be scared, but not too scared! An added feature is an "Author's Note," which explains this kind of poem-a Rubaiyat. 1998, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Ages 5 to 8, $16.00. Reviewer: Tina Hudak
ISBN: 0-689-80365-7
Informania: Ghosts
Christopher Maynard
Open the cover and a series of tabbed section in a spiral bound book let readers learn all about ghosts. It opens with an abridged version of Blackwood's The Empty House which sets the stage and may make a few goosebumps rise. The next two sections explain how to catch a ghost as written by Dee Bunker of the Spooks Investigation Agency and how to find fakes which includes a tour of The National Museum of Phony Ghosts. The next section highlights a few of the better know ghost movies and has them categorized-Ghosts on the rampage, ghosts in love, etc. The final pages contain a ready reference guide and index. Ghosts Online will probably be a big hit as will the Haunted History timeline in this tongue in cheek look at the poltergeists and the like. 1999, Candlewick, Ages 8 to 12, $15.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-7636-0758-4
Listen Ear and Other Stories to Shock You Silly!
Paul Jennings
These seven short stories will entice horror story fans with their blend of humor, quirkiness, and drama. The stories tell about a boy who gets chased by his own face; a kid who travels through time to change his future; and an autistic child who makes his dying brother's last wish come true. Each story is unusual and thought provoking, and will entertain even the most reluctant reader! The author includes a note explaining how he comes up with his ideas, which may inspire some readers to write a few stories of their own. 1998 (1995), Puffin Books, Ages 10 up, $3.99. Reviewer: Cheryl Peterson
ISBN: 0-14-038961-X
Make Yourself a Monster! A Book of Creepy Crafts
Kathy Ross
Illustrated by Sharon Hawkins Vargo
The twenty projects in this book are most appropriate for Halloween, but they certainly aren't limited to the holiday. A boxed insert lists all of the items need for a project-most of the materials are readily available. I particularly liked the Giant Brain and Creep from the Deep both of which use an old pair of panty hose and the Tissue Ghost. They can be used as part of a Halloween costume or party decorations. These crafts are very easy and like the others in the book, they have only five or six instruction steps all of which are accompanied with illustrations to make the instructions easier to follow. Good for classroom and home activities. 1999, Millbrook, Ages 5 to 8, $22.90 and $7.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-7613-1556-X
ISBN: 0-7613-1049-5
Midnight's Choice
Kate Thompson
Tess is a Switcher. She can take the shape and form of any living creature. In Kate Thompson's earlier novel, Tess learned that there are others like her. With her fellow Switcher, Kevin, Tess succeeded in defeating the Krools in Antarctica. In this, the sequel to that novel, Tess is faced with a crucial decision: on her fifteenth birthday, which is fast approaching, she must choose the form she will assume for the rest of her life. Kevin visits Tess in his chosen form, the beautiful golden bird called the phoenix. At the same time, Tess meets another Switcher named Martin, a troubled teen who is planning to choose the ultimate form of evil-the Vampire. Tess is equally lulled and seduced by the forces of good and evil, with the outcome in doubt right up to the exciting climax. Heeding the timely advice of an eccentric old lady, Lizzie, Tess is able to ward off excruciating pressures, ultimately choosing the road toward a balanced future. 1999, Hyperion, Ages 12 to 16, $15.99. Reviewer: Christopher Moning
ISBN: 0-7868-0381-9
ISBN: 0-7868-2329-1
Midnight in the Cemetery: A Spooky Search-and-Find Alphabet Book
Cheryl Harness
Illustrated by Robin Brickman
Having been double-dog-dared by the big boys to go to the cemetery at midnight, find an X and dig behind it for the pirates gold, two children carry their shovels. When they begin to dig, to their horror, the pirate Ed "explodes" from his grave. As they flee, other ghosts begin to appear. The children retreated so quickly that Ed announces there was plenty of time to party. Brickman's impressive collages simultaneously appear macabre and humorous. Some of her three-dimensional paint on paper illustrations appear so real the reader feels that she can reach out and touch the objects. The pictures grow increasingly brighter, from the midnight blues to bright light of day. Alphabetical alliteration tells this cautionary tale. Each page has objects beginning with the twenty-six letters of the alphabet for the reader to find. There is a listing of them in the back of the book. The spooky ambiance created by the cadence of the text and the style of illustrations will satisfy those looking to be scared. 1999, Simon & Schuster Books, Ages 5 to 8, $16.00. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-689-80873-9
Moaning Bones, African-American Ghost Stories
Jim Haskins
Illustrated by Felicia Marshall
Almost everyone enjoys hearing a good ghost story. In this collection of 17 spooky tales, you will meet a variety of eerie creatures such as the Ghost Calf, Old Hy-Ty, the Ghost in the Backseat, and Old Moccasin's ghost, to name but a few. In these traditional folk tales, retold in read-aloud style, you'll visit a haunted steamship, a majestic plantation farmhouse, and the Lake of the Dead. These stories are all short and easy reads, with nice black and white illustrations. Don't worry-they're more fun than scary, and suitable for younger children. 1998, Lothrop Lee & Shepard/Morrow Junior Books, Ages 7 up, $15.00. Reviewer: Christopher Moning
ISBN: 0-688-16021-2
My Monster Mama Loves Me So
Laura Leuk
Illustrations by Mark Buehner
Be they human or monsters, mother's love their little ones. Little monster relates all the ways that he know his mother loves him. She hugs him, bakes delicious cookies,cheers for him at ball games, and rocks him to sleep and sings lullabies. It is a reassuring story, but it does seem a little inconsistent that a monster big enough to handle a baseball bat would still want to be rocked and sung a lullaby. The younger audience won't be bothered. 1999, Lothrop, Ages 3 to 7, $16.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-688-16866-3
ISBN: 0-688-16867-1
Night-Time Numbers: A Scary Counting Book
Susan L. Roth
Nighttime can be a scary with suspected spooky creatures hiding in the darkness. Count from one ghoulish monster to ten chilling bats, and count them in the eerie darkness of night. "Who can you see in the backyard tonight? I can see one monster in the pale moonlight." Six sharks swim in the bathtub, seven spiders spin webs in the toy chest and eight ghosts haunt an ancient closet. Roth's cut paper collages bring a comforting visitor at the end to banish any nighttime monsters. 1999, Barefoot Books, Ages 3 to 5 $15.95. Reviewer: Bonnie Bruneau
ISBN: 1-84148-001-0
Ogres! Ogres! Ogres!
Nicholas Heller
Pictures by Jos. A. Smith
Using the technique that worked so well in Lobel's A is for ??, Heller runs through the alphabet with a collection of individuals who have unusual names and enjoy some fairly unusual foods. All the significant words for a given entry start with that letter of the alphabet and end with a word whose beginning letter is next in the alphabetic sequence. to illustrate, "Melanie merrily munches nuts, and Nicodemus nibbles numerous oysters." The real fun is found in the outlandish illustrations that feature all sorts of ogres enjoying their foods in some mighty strange ways. The book will appeal to kids on multiple levels. Those who know the alphabet will enjoy the complexity of the words and those who are younger will relish the pictures. Teachers might challenge their students to undertake a similar exercise. 1999, Greenwillow, Ages 3 to 10, $16.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-688-16986-4
ISBN: 0-688-16987-2
The Other Ones
Jean Thesman
Although her Aunt Cait implores her not to turn her back on her nature, Bridget has not yet come to terms with the idea that she is a witch. During her sophomore year of high school, a variety of events come together to help her make her decision. First there is Althea, the strange new girl in the class, then the class bully goes too far, and finally Jordan becomes fatally ill after his father deserts him. Mystery and the occult merge as Bridget sorts out her inner feelings and the external events. In an interesting twist, the witches are the good people and the ordinary humans suffer from an assortment of foibles. Feelings of concern over being different from one's peers, so much on the minds of young teens, is an interestingly developed theme. Some readers may find Jordan's death, the release of his spirit, to be controversial while others will find it simply thought- provoking. Bridget's threshold guardian, Xiii, provides comic relief. Her parents are one-dimensional. This fantasy into the world of witches allows the reader to determine what it means to be human. 1999, Viking, Ages 10 to 14, $15.99. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-670-88594-0
Operation Ghost
Jacques Duquennoy
With tongue in cheek, Duquennoy tells the tale of poor Henry. He always seemed to be suffering from some malady. The worst was the evening that the fell asleep while out for a stroll in a storm with his ghost friends. The quickly took him to the hospital because ghosts don't sleep at night. Doctor Ouch knew just what to do. He cut open Henry and removed his internal clock-the hands were missing and it wasn't working properly. Doctor Ouch fixed the clock and put it back, but every now and then Harry still has a strange problem with his internal clock. The story is funny and older kids and adults will enjoy the humor even if they don't understand the concept of an internal clock. 1999, Harcourt, Ages 3 to 8, $13.00 and $6.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-15-202182-5
ISBN: 0-15-202203-1
Pinky and Rex and the Perfect Pumpkin
James Howe
Illustrations by Melissa Sweet
According to tradition, Grandma and Grandpa arrive to take Pinky, his little sister Amanda, their cousin Abby and Pinky's best friend Rex on their annual pumpkin-picking weekend. When Abby snubs Rex and says hello to everyone else, Rex begins to have the feeling that this will be a bad weekend. Abby goes out of her way to ignore Rex. Pinky does nothing to include her either. After Grandpa carves the pumpkin, Rex overhears Abby suggest to Pinky and Amanda that Rex should take the annual photograph "because she's not part of the family". After a full day of feeling like an outsider, Rex smashes the pumpkin. Wise grandparents bring the children together to solve the problem. Part of the "Ready-To-Read" series, this is a well-written story for newly independent readers. Short chapters liberally sprinkled with watercolor illustrations will give readers a sense of achievement. The story will help them develop empathy for the feelings of others. Fans will welcome the eleventh book about Pinky and Rex. 1998, Atheneum, Ages 7 to 10, $15.00. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-689-81782-7
Pumpkin Circle: The Story of a Garden
George Levenson
Photographs by Shmuel Thaler
This charming account of a pumpkin life cycle is based on an award-winning video. Pristine, brightly colored photographs illustrate how seeds sprout and grow, twine and lean to the sun, flower and attract bee pollinators, and finally produce pumpkins. A straw-hatted, orange-gloved, black-clad man appears unobtrusively to demonstrate, hold, or merely appreciate what is going on in this pumpkin patch. Five varieties of squash are grown and in the end, pumpkins are carved, they decay, rot and turn to earth where in next year's muck and dirt, a seed sprouts again. Just in time for Halloween, this beautifully realized book nurtures children's wonder at this seasonally familiar crop. Levenson's text rhymes when it wants to, but the rhyme is overshadowed by the lively pictures, and the whole package finishes with "How to grow pumpkins". All in all a winning entry in the life-cycle books and a must-read in preschools and early elementary grades for October. l999, Tricycle Press, Ages 4 to 9, $14.95. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 1-58246-004-3
The Pumpkin Book
Gail Gibbons
Readers will be fascinated by the growth of a pumpkin plant, from preparing the soil and planting the seed, to watching it germinate and grow. Gibbons doesn't stop there, however. In a well-organized and comprehensible text, she gives some information on the history of this plant, a brief bit on Halloween, and how to carve or decorate a pumpkin. Just in case the reader is looking for more information, she has included additional facts in the back of the book. Her clean, clear style of illustration attractively shows the information described in the text. She always has interesting details to pull the readers into the illustrations. Guaranteed to be a popular book, particularly throughout the autumn season. 1999, Holiday House, Ages 5 to 9, $16.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-8234-1465-5
Pumpkins Gone Crazy
Klutz
If you want to do something a little different with your pumpkin this year, the Klutz editors have come up with some interesting ideas. They also urge kids to take a look at the shape and don't just go for the round ones. The scraped look is different and painting pumpkins offers lots of opportunities to be creative. Both will last longer than a carved pumpkin which will start to deteriorate in about four days. There are the usual cautions about sharp knives and the need for adult assistance in this fold out guide even has template to use for a pumpkin mouth, eyes and nose. 1999, Klutz, Ages 6 up, $4.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 1-57054-360-7
Rabbit-Cadabra!
James Howe
Illustrated by Alan Daniel
Bunnicula fans will recognize James Howe's cast of characters in this picture book. The great Karlovsky, magician extraordinaire, is coming to town, and Toby Monroe is extremely excited about it. The Monroe family pets-Chester the cat, Howie the dachshund, and Harold, a big shaggy dog, are worried. They are concerned that Bunnicala, the family's rabbit, is in on some plot with Karlovsky, to unleash loads of vampire rabbits on the town. Sound crazy? It is a rather zany plot, one with lots of twists and turns a bit beyond the ability of the usual picture book crowd to follow. There's some wry humor in the family dynamics that is brought out nicely in realistic watercolor/gouache illustrations of Toby, his brother Pete, and their very expressive pets. 1993, Mulberry Books/William Morrow, Ages 6 to 8, $5.95. Reviewer: Nancy Partridge
ISBN: 0-688-16699-7
A Rattle of Bones
Kipling West
Witches, goblins, skeletons and monsters come alive in this high-spirited, richly colored picture book featuring the typical symbols of Halloween. On the cover, the book announces it is "a Halloween book of collective nouns." A "glaring" of cats, a "kindle" of kittens, a "murder" of crows and a "venom" of spiders are just some of the collective nouns used to help children learn the names for groups of things. The problem is many of these collective nouns are outdated, out of general use and make little sense in today's world. Along with the nouns, there's additional story text that detracts from the illustrations and disorients the reader. At the end of the book, there's a note about how all of the terms used in the publication were employed at some point in history. While these words may be interesting to devotees of the English language, they don't do much for children building vocabularies. In fact, it might just confuse them. To its credit, the note also encourages readers to use their imagination to make up their own words to describe groups of things such as a group of math teachers and bratty brothers and sisters. Still, at the end of the day, this book doesn't exactly promote great Trick-or-Treat conversation. 1999, Orchard Books, Ages 3 to 7, $15.95. Reviewer: Joni Lucas
ISBN: 0-531-30196-6
Sammy Keyes and The Skeleton Man
Wendelin Van Draanen
Sammy is a seventh grader who loves to solve mysteries. Twenty years ago, a family had its heirlooms stolen by a man in a skeleton costume. Now, Sammy is the one who may be able to solve that crime. The fast-paced and well-written story of Sammy Keyes is one that will delight and entrance those who read it. Of special note is the interest that will be generated by middle school readers, because Sammy is actually Samantha Keyes, who lives with her grandmother and is intelligent, fun loving and willing to try anything to solve a mystery. Fun for all who like a mystery, and a great choice for Halloween. 1998, Alfred A. Knopf, Ages 10 up, $15.00. Reviewer: Ru Story-Huffman
ISBN: 0-679-88850-0
Seven Strange and Ghostly Tales
Brian Jacques
Though never dogmatic, important moral lessons are embedded in these eerie tales. Each story is prefaced by a poem that gives a clue or warning about what's to follow. There is the graffiti artist who is mummified in an Egyptian exhibit because he defaces the museum. The girl who steals senior citizens' most precious possessions finds her demise in a prized egg. There are the school bullies whose extortion racket ends in a ghostly comeuppance. A mean-spirited uncle finds his end in a lake inhabited by the mysterious Grimblett. An inveterate liar tricks the devil and the angel Gabriel but is ultimately bored with lying. In a lighter vein, a boy has a fearsome run-in with a vampire whose mother ends up reminding him of his own nagging mother. In the most gruesome tale, a sad boy ghost haunts the spot where he died trying to eat forbidden candy, and after hundreds of years finally finds satisfaction. The English author is especially good at creating a variety of characters whose different classes, countries, dialects, accents, and personalities interact in these seven distinct plots. These are not just slightly scary tales for children; many of them have severe consequences. 1999 (orig. 1991), A PaperStar Book/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, Ages 10 to 12, $5.99. Reviewer: Carol Raker Collins
ISBN: 0-698-11808-1
Sharp Horns on the Moon
Carole Crowe
Ivy Marie lives on a secluded island with her fisherman father who is often at sea. Her mother died when she was young, and she is home-schooled by her Aunt Ethel. Isolated and lonely, her best and only friend in the world becomes a ghost named Eleanor Moneypenny. Their friendship takes them into the past, and eventually to the house with the red door. "Then darkness fell in an instant and a crescent moon with devil horns sliced through a night sky. The house filled with a haunting glow that drew me through the creaking gate, to the red door that eased open on its own." A haunting and eerie story about an unusual friendship, and how the past and present can influence one another. Though everything begins to make sense in the end, some parts become very intense and spooky not for the faint hearted reader! 1998, Boyds Mill Press, Ages 13 up, $14.95.
Reviewer: Cheryl Peterson
ISBN: 1-56397-671-4
The Spooky Book
Steve Patschke
Illustrated by Matthew McElligott
This imaginative story will appeal to children, especially those who like to read and enjoy a surprise. The illustrations, as well as the overall layout of the book itself, add to the suspense as a young boy named Andrew sits down to read a spooky book on a dark night in a great big house while the wind howls and the lightening flashes. On that same stormy night, a girl named Zo Zo is frightened while reading a spooky book and runs from the shadows creeping across the wall of her room. Zo Zo runs through the storm until she comes to a big old house. "Zo Zo knocked, and the old door echoed. From inside the house there came a MONSTROUS CRASH and then a long, fearful howl . . ." For the ending, you will have to read the book, which is not merely spooky, but even a little kooky. There is more than a ghost of a chance you will enjoy it. 1999, Walker, Ages 5 to 8, $15.95. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford
ISBN: 0-8027-8692-8
ISBN: 0-8027-8693-6
The Teeny Tiny Teacher
Stephanie Calmenson
Illustrated by Denis Roche
Stephanie Calmenson has adapted an old English folktale into a delightful, frightful ghost story for young children. A teeny tiny teacher and her teeny tiny class discover a teeny tiny bone on a teeny tiny walk. The teacher puts the teeny tiny bone into her pocket to save for a teeny tiny science lesson. But when someone calls out in a not so tiny voice demanding their teeny tiny bone back, the teeny tiny students become frightened and hide under their teeny tiny desks until the teacher shouts in her loudest teeny tiny voice, "TAKE IT!" The illustrations capture the classroom setting in a way that readers will surely recognize. Children and adults will enjoy reading this teeny tiny ghost story more than a teeny tiny bit! 1998, Scholastic Press, Ages 4 to 8, $15.95. Reviewer: Mary Hamilton
ISBN: 0-590-37123-1
The Tiny Tiny Woman
Arthur Robbins
This ever-popular story has been issued again with humorous watercolor illustrations by Robbins. The Teeny tiny woman finds a bone in the churchyard and takes it hoem to make some soup, but when she arrives home too fatigued to make soup, she places the bone in the cupboard. That night a voice calls out seeking his bone frightening the teeny tiny woman, but in the end it is the bone-seeking monster that is sent scuttling away. 1998, Candlewick, Ages 3 to 5, $10.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-7636-0452-6
This is the Pumpkin
Abby Levine
Illustrated by Paige Billin-Frye
Max and his sister are getting ready for Halloween. Mom has created a ghastly green costume for Max while his sister deresses as a princess. There is a party at school, pumpkin carving with dad and then a evening of trick-or-treating. In the end Max and his sister share their goodies. The whole story is related in cumulative verse and further enlived with amusing watercolor illustrations by Billin-Frye. She manages to create wonderful expressions on her simply drawn faces. A book that will really appeal to the younger kids. 1998, Albert Whitman, Ages 3 to 6, $13.95 and $6.95 Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8075-7886-X
ISBN: 0-8075-7887-8
What a Scare, Jesse Bear
Nancy White Carlstrom
Illustrated by Bruce Degen
Jesse and his family are preparing for the big day. They head off to the country to select a pumpkin at Panda Pete's Pumpkin Patch. Papa does the honors but Jesse gets to scoop out the pumpkin seeds. Then its time to select a costume and when Jesse puts on his monster mask and looks in the mirror he gives himself a fright. Off to trick or treat Jesse doesn't wear his mask, but when they arrive at a friendly neighbors house he decides that he is brave enough to wear it and maybe even play a little trick on grandma and grandpa. A pleasant story that will resonate with young kids who may have some misgivings about all of the Halloween hoopla and costumed monsters roaming the neighborhood. 1999, Simon Schuster, ages 2 to 6, $15.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-689-81961-7
Which Witch
Eva Ibbotson
Arriman Canker, also known as Arriman the Awful, Wizard of the North, Loather of Light, is a famous and powerful dark wizard. He can conjure up pestilence and blight, frighten the stoutest heart with his freakish collection of animals-he can even make lightning go before thunder. But there's one thing Arriman has trouble with, and that's meeting the right kind of woman for a suitable wife. With the aid of his faithful secretary Mr. Leadbetter, and his intelligent one-eyed ogre, Lester, Arriman determines to hold a contest to find out which witch has powers black enough to warrant being Mrs. Canker. The seven witches of Todcaster gather for the contest, and never before has black magic been so much fun. Between the bickering twins, the witch who resembles her pig, the old hag who keeps accidentally changing herself into a coffee table, and the wicked enchantress, Olympia, Arriman is beginning to long for permanent bachelorhood. Belladonna, the most beautiful witch, is upset with herself: try as she might she can only seem to make white magic. Readers will laugh aloud at the antics of these zany characters, right up to the happy ending. Related in a clever, humorous style, reminiscent of Roald Dahl, kids of all ages will enjoy this book. 1999 (orig. 1979), Dutton Children's Books/Penguin, Ages 12 up, $15.99. Reviewer: Christopher Moning
ISBN: 0-525-46164-7
Who Said Boo?
Nancy White Carlstrom
Illustrated by R. W. Alley
This collection of twelve Halloween poems for the very young is a real delight. From "I'm A Monster" in which a young boy frightened by his own costumed reflected in a mirror to the "Mixed up Masquerade" where all the costumes are not exactly what they should be to "Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Shadow?" kids will have a chuckle. Halloween can be a little scary and there is nothing like a little humor and a shared adventure to cast a different light on the holiday. Alley's watercolors that depict a busy family with tree kids are full of action and humor of their own. 1999 (orig. 1995), Aladdin/Simon & Schuster, Ages 3 to 6, $5.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-689-80380-7
ISBN: 0-689-83151-X
Who Walks on This Halloween Night?
Harriet Ziefert
Illustrations by Chris Demarest
Who walks, click clack, thump thump, hip-hop on Halloween night? On every page there is someone hiding in the neighborhood, and opening the flaps on each page reveals who is hiding. Kids will not only enjoy reading the book, but they will also have fun guessing. The illustrations of the Halloween night are cheerful and sure to bring forth the Halloween spirit. A great way to get kids interested in reading, and also to talk about safety for Trick-or-Treating. 1998, Little Simon/Simon & Schuster, Ages 3 up, $5.99. Reviewer: Yumiko Bendlin
ISBN: 0-689-81992-7
Whooo's Haunting the Teeny Tiny Ghost?
Kay Winters
Illustrated by Lynn Munsinger
When the teeny tiny ghost arrived home from school, he found his back door open. Upon timidly entering, he heard chains clinking and saw the rocker rocking. He called out but no one answered. Gathering courage, he searched the house for the culprit. Adept readers will identify the intruder from the clues provided at the beginning of the story. Winters and Munsinger have teamed up again to present a second adventure of the teeny tiny ghost. Munsinger's cartoon-style watercolor illustrations, with their off-kilter look, create a spooky ambiance but never become macabre. Winters sets up a nice mystery with a satisfying ending for the age group. Young children can easily identify with the teeny tiny ghost. 1999, HarperCollins, Ages 3 to 8, $14.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-06-027358-5
The Witch Who Was Afraid of Witches
Alice Low
Pictures by Jane Manning
Wendy the witch has two pretty mean sisters, Polly and Wog. They wouldn't let her ride with them claiming that she didn't have a proper broomstick and they wouldn't let her help cast spells. Little witch tries her best to master these skills and succeeds quite well after she makes a friend on Halloween night. His belief in her abilities lets her cast a few spells that help convince her sisters that she is also a formidable witch. Jane Manning's green witches are more amusing than scary. Part of the "An I Can Read Chapter Book" series. 1999 (orig. 1978), HarperCollins, Ages 7 to 9, $14.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-06-028305-X
ISBN: 0-06-028306-8
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