Baker, Laura. Monsters at School. Nina Dzyvulska, Illus. Happy Yak, 06/2024. [32]pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.99. 978-0-7112-8661-0. GRADES Preschool–2. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
In this rhyming story, a variety of monsters enjoy the first day of school: “Fluffy monsters, scruffy monsters, monsters on their way, rucksack monsters, turn-back monsters, off to school today!” The bright, saturated colors of the cartoon artwork are the dominant feature of the book, and appear to be achieved using gouache with black outlines. The monsters wear human clothing and appear in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. The school environment features the usual activities including art, music, lunch, restroom, lessons, and riding the bus. Good for a class visit readaloud, readers are encouraged to look for the orange Dog Monster in every spread. Review based on an ARC.
Penny Peck—San José State University, iSchool