Felix and the Monsters by Josh and Monica Holtsclaw- OPTIONAL

 Felix and the Monsters by Josh and Monica Holtsclaw. PICTURE BOOK. Nancy Paulsen Books.  2020. $18. 9780593110522.

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE: AVERAGE

Felix's only job is to guard a wall that keeps out the “little monsters” because they are bad. He does not want to be a guard, because he would rather play his keytar and form a band. The other guards disapprove, and he plays anyways while guarding the wall. Then, Dot, a “little monster” hears his music and pops over talking about her love of music as well. She invites him over, and he goes to the other side. He learns that the “little monsters” are good and just love art, music, etc. and are actually quite nice. He forms a band with the “little monsters”. His fellow guards come over the wall to try and rescue him, but hear the beautiful music, and see how kind they all actually are. They apologize for misjudging the the “little monsters”, break down the wall, and enjoy music and art and dancing together.

Felix and the Monsters was quite enjoyable. I loved the message it has about not judging others, as well as the more subtle message to love everyone, because you most likely are just misunderstanding them.The art is very well done, and if you read the credentials of the authors/artists, you will quickly understand how the artwork is so eye-catching and cute.

Reviewer: AR/SL