Title: The Monster at the End of this Book
Author: Jon Stone
Illustrator: Michael Smollin
Publisher: Golden Books, 1971
Ages: 3-5
Themes: Fear, Humor, Interactive
Opening Sentences:
“WHAT DID THAT SAY?
On the first page, what did that say? Did that say there will be a Monster at the end of this book???
IT DID? Oh, I am so scared of Monsters !!!“
Synopsis:
Grover comes up with innovative ways to beg the reader to not turn the page, for there is a MONSTER at the end of this book.
Why I Like This Book:
First all I must have been living out in the boonies when I was a child. I only learned of this book a few months ago as a number of kidlit folks (authors, librarians) have listed this book as one of their childhood favorites or the book they often gift. It has now become one of my go to gift for young kids.
This is one hilarious book, perfect for story time or lap-time reading. It is a blast to read out loud; who doesn’t love exaggerating when it elicits a laugh or two out those precious little kids. Kids reading it on their own will enjoy the interactivity of the book. In the narrative, Grover is talking to the reader. He tries to convince the reader or “prevent” them from not turning the page. Once the page is turned, the reader is rewarded with Grover’s theatrics about getting closer to the monster at the end of this book. The ending will delight the reader as it confirms what he already knows, which is that Grover is the Monster.
I love how the text and illustrations wonderfully convey Grover’s over the top antics. He is a bit of a drama queen. This book is also available as a book app. I just downloaded and it is even better than the book, as it heightens the hilarity of the whole situation. I can’t wait to show my kids the app this weekend. There is also a sequel book and book app called “Another Monster at the End of this Book“.
This review is part of Susanna Leonard Hill’s Perfect Picture Book series. Visit her site to see the other books recommended.
Were you able to think up any activities to go with it?
