Friday, October 21, 2011

Book Review: The Night Before Halloween

Written by: Natasha Wing
Illustrated by: Cynthia Fisher
Published by: Grosset & Dunlap
Release Date: August 16, 1999
Source: Bought.
Ages: 4-8

Synopsis: "'Twas the night before Halloween, and all through the house,
All the creatures were stirring, except for the mouse.
The monsters had gathered to plan and prepare,
For the trick-or-treaters who soon would be there...."
Little monsters and goofy goblins take center stage in this silly, spooky spin on Clement C. Moore's beloved poem. But what will happen on Halloween when the monsters come face to face with human trick-or-treaters in this fun-filled book by the author of The Night Before Easter?

I have to admit that we have a TON of these books. Okay, not a ton, but at least a dozen. Who can resist the familiar rhyme made famous by Clement C. Moore's poem. We all know it and can recite it by heart.

Well, imagine a Halloween-themed version where the monsters are getting ready for trick-or-treaters to visit their house. I think I love this story as much as my kids.

Count Dracula grinned
and slicked back his hair.
Frankenstein's bride cried,
"I've nothing to wear!"

And just as the children (all tucked and nestled indeed) are going out trick-or-treating, they happen upon a real haunted house filled with actual monsters all decked out for them. I promise you the ending is far from scary and yes, it's in fact, awfully sweet.

This book was first published twelve years ago and it's still popular. Be sure to check out why by picking it up at your favorite bookstore.
I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~