Book Review: The Monster at the End of this Book

The Monster at the end of this book.By Jon Stone. Illus. by Michael Smollin.1971. 24p. A Golden Book, $8.99 . (9780375929137)

 

Age Group:Toddler to Kindergarten
Genre:Fiction

Awards:None listed. 

Topics/Issues: Monsters

ELS promoted: Print motivation, print awareness

Format: Hardcover

 

Annotation: 
Grover worries that if readers continue turning pages that they'll reach the monster advertised in the title of the book.
 

Reactions/Observations:
Grover worries that if we continue turning pages we'll meet the monster at the end of the book.  He goes to all lengths from tying the pages down and bricking the pages up to keep the reader from continuing, but this only fuels the fire. When my storytime was asked if we should continue (even if Grover is scared), they all agreed.The book reminds me of a conversation between the reader and the main character, Grover. This conversation quality allows for great interaction between the storyteller and the audience.

 The best way to promote print motivation is to share your favorite book.  By sharing your favorites,  you're promoting a joy for reading.  This book is an easy sell for both children and adults. Also, Grover tells the reader that there's a monster at the end. As the reader continues to turn the pages, they become aware of the structure of the book (which is practice for print awareness). This book is ideal for toddler audiences, but all ages enjoy the ridiculous nature of a classic Sesame Street character.