Doug Cenko

Visiting our daughter for her 24th birthday, my wife and I give her a picture book read aloud marathon (Book 5 of 11).

Merv the monster is very helpful but also very dim. When the residents of the village next to him complain that somebody needs to do something about that monster, he's not sure who they're talking about, but he sets off on a quest to do something about that monster, failing to get assistance from witches, a troll, and some unicorns. He doesn't even understand the ending of show more his own book when the villagers find out that they need to be careful what they wish for.

There are nice sentiments and even a clever twist here, but the story unfolds poorly and the ending is just awful for everyone involved except the oblivious Merv. No one in this book has a character arc, unless you count the unrepentant villagers being punished for their sins. show less

This book by an Illinois author is about a monster who seeks to find the help his town needs. They need help getting rid of the monster. I love how clueless this monster is, it makes this story fun and heartwarming. Especially when he goes ask the witches and the ogre and the unicorns for help. But all of those individuals want something from the monster. Something the monster can’t give them. So Monster goes home feeling they failed. But it turns out they did the exact right thing. The show more words and the messages are fun, but what really sets this book apart are the illustrations. They’re soft but comfy like a warm blanket. They’re colorful and just feel like love on the page. Overall, this was a great book that I could see being handed down through generations. show less

Consider what a child thinks of a parent, as they go about their day, fixing toys, mending clothes, and making dinner. This lovely book with it's vibrant illustrations show one boy's love for his mother and all that she does for him.

Anyone who tries to ban this is clearly reacting to the cover instead of evaluating the content and earns no credibility in their complaints. Darling book. *Every* child deserves a parent this loving & supportive.