Two friends: one big, one little. One old, one young. One grumpy, one cheerful. Both: MONSTERS! From the author of Crabapple Trouble comes a sweet and fun-filled chapter-book graphic novel, with a charming cast of adorable monsters. Reggie's plan is to spend the whole summer brooding over his latest adventure gone wrong. But his friendly and curious neighbor, Emily, won't let him sit alone and unhappy in his house forever! Despite their differences, these two monsters make the perfect pair of explorers. And with a map to make, a beach party to plan, and a sea monster to find, Reggie will have to learn to talk about his feelings and let new friends in! With bright, gorgeous art by Kaeti Vandorn, Monster Friends features the cutest, fuzziest monsters you've ever seen . Gr 2–5—Reggie, a shape-shifting young monster, who most often appears as a brown cyclops, is more than happy to spend his summer in the cozy home he's house sitting for his cousins. After a traumatic experience in a cave with a fellow explorer, grumpy Reggie wants a bit of quiet. It's not long before he meets Emily, a rabbitlike monster with the boundless enthusiasm of a large puppy. Emily takes a reluctant Reggie out to the seaside and into the village and introduces him to her sisters and loving parents. While Reggie gains trust in his new friends, he also helps Emily with sibling squabbles and insecurities. Additional characters include tigers and dinosaurs and a sea monster, all of whom are friendly in their own ways. Reggie learns how to deal with his fears, and Emily gets a chance to prove herself to her sisters. Vandorn's endearing illustrations bring to life a lively and serene world. Subtle details add to the experience—for instance, dialogue bubbles are outlined in different colors depending on who is speaking. The very end of the story necessitates flipping back to the beginning, but it's a minor quibble. VERDICT Readers will wish that all monsters were this lovely. A winning tale of an unlikely friendship that will appeal to imaginative kids who love to daydream about adventures.—Gretchen Hardin, Bee Cave P.L., TX “ A winning tale of an unlikely friendship that will appeal to imaginative kids who love to daydream about adventures.” — School Library Journal , starred review “This appealing, candy-colored treat offers a winning friendship and gentle encouragement .” —Publishers Weekly , starred review “A sweetly encouraging look at the way friendship can mend heart and soul.” — Kirkus Reviews , starred review Kaeti Vandorn is a children's illustrator and comic artist who likes friendly monsters and playing with color. She also enjoys fantasy adventure stories. Monster Friends is Kaeti's second graphic novel. Kaeti can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @proteidaes.