Minerva the Monster
PreSchool-Grade 2—Minerva the Boston terrier (or, in this case, terror) is back. Having declared herself a monster at the start of the story, she makes a fearsome paper-plate mask and takes on a new persona. As a monster, Minerva says, she doesn't have to help with chores, eat green beans, or wear pajamas (the latter due to her thick monster fur). Although being a monster is liberating, it is also isolating: monsters don't play games, eat peanut butter cookies, or get tucked into bed. As inNobody Notices Minerva(Sterling, 2007), the patience of her parents steers the rambunctious child toward making a decision that resolves the situation satisfactorily for all. Children will appreciate that Minerva is allowed her monster personality and then welcomed so readily back. The gouache and colored-pencil illustrations are crisp, bright, and full of mischief, much like Minerva herself. This book will be a hit with readers who already know the protagonist and a treat for those meeting her for the first time.—Kara Schaff Dean, Walpole Public Library, MACopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.