Thank you to Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing spooky stories with Beagles & Books.
Misfit Mansion by Kay Davault
Most of the horrors that live in former paranormal hunter Mr. Halloway’s house feel safe and welcomed but Iris has never felt at home. When the house’s sealing spell is broken by Mathias, the nephew of Halloway’s former paranormal partner, Iris seizes the opportunity to venture into town to find what she is missing. On television, the mayor always says in Dead End Springs, everyone is family.
At first, Iris and other horrors blend in at the Harvest Festival where costumes are the norm. But when Mathias exposes her as a dangerous horror, she fears the worst. Luckily, she is rescued by fellow horrors Kel and Agnes and townsperson Jane. Gradually, the plot unfolds revealing the long standing rift between Mathias’ aunt and Halloway and why Iris has reason to feel slighted.
Once I read the very first comic panels of Misfit Mansion, I was hooked. I sensed Iris’ longing which comes full circle when she realizes her family was always there. Davault’s illustrations are full of energy matching her peppy dialogue. I love that the themes of friendship and forgiveness are highlighted for always an important lesson to not hold grudges and move forward. Hoping for another Misfit Mansion adventure to check in on the family.
Misfit Mansion published on July 25, 2023.
Happy Halloweenie by Kate Vernon
This rhyming board book features a hot dog who can’t decide what to dress up as on Halloween. Kids will relate to the tough decision Weenie has to make. Choosing the right costume is a difficult task. Vernon’s playful text and expressive illustrations will draw in young children and the size of the board book makes it easier for toddlers to hold on their own.
Happy Halloweenie published on July 16, 2023.
Every Night at Midnight by Peter Cheong
A boy named Felix has a unique gift, for at midnight, he becomes a wolf. Felix wishes this metamorphosis didn’t occur every night because he can never join his classmates at sleepovers. When a new girl arrives at school, Felix is a bit jealous; unlike him, she seems to fit in immediately. Felix tries to shrug it off, but it’s difficult especially since the new girl also took over the title of fastest runner.
One night when Felix howls, he hears a howl in return. To his surprise, he meets another wolf and for once, Felix is not lonely. Observant readers will see a resemblance between the new girl and the wolf. At the end of the story, Felix discovers that he has something in common with not only the girl but also his classmates. This imaginative narrative with whimsical artwork is a perfect bedtime story reminding readers there is a pack for everyone.
Every Day at Midnight published on August 8, 2023.
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