Monster Trouble!

Winifred Schnitzel--a brown-skinned girl with big kewpie-doll eyes and two fuzzy pigtails--has a monster problem. They visit her bedroom every night, and although Winifred thinks they are adorable (and in the Mary Blair meets Monsters, Inc. world of Robinson's artwork, it's easy to see why), but her sleep cycles are suffering. Winifred sets a variety of traps to deter the monsters, but she inadvertently discovers that a sleep-deprived kiss works better than sticky nets or spike-covered chairs. Fredrickson's rhymes bounce along at a rollicking pace ("Winifred knew that despite their uniqueness, / she'd discovered that monsters have one silly weakness"), and there are plenty of giggles to be had in watching a sleepy Winifred send the monsters scattering as she tries to bestow gentle kisses on them. Ages 4-8. Illustrator's agency: Lindgren & Smith. (Sept.)

Poor Winifred Schnitzel looks a bit monstrous after losing sleep because the monsters invading her house won't quit! She's definitely not afraid, but her handy guide to getting rid of monsters is just not doing the trick. One night, in a sleepy stupor, Ms. Schnitzel puckers her lips and lands a kiss on the nearest monster. It does the trick, and the monsters bother her no more. Playful and witty, this story will have even the grown-ups giggling. Written in verse, this rhyming text is fast-paced and silly in the most delightful way. Robertson's illustrations of Winifred are hilarious, as her cartoonish facial expressions perfectly convey her confusion, determination, and utter exhaustion. Additionally, the monsters appear simultaneously sinister and harmless, keeping young readers from fearing monsters like the brave Winifred Schnitzel. The little girl's attitude and actions send a strong message to young readers and promote reading to boot. VERDICT A great choice for any picture book collection.—Kaitlin Connors, Virginia Beach Public Library