Woo hoo! It’s Friday!!!
And you know what that means, boys and girls…
It’s time for Perfect Picture Books!
(Although truth be told, I’m not even here today!)
I can’t say today’s choice relates to the time of year or anything that’s going on. I just loved this book from the opening sentence, and I hope you will too!
Title: Marilyn’s Monster
Written By: Michelle Knudsen
Illustrated By: Matt Phelan
Candlewick, March 2015, Fiction
Suitable For Ages: 4-8
Themes/Topics: patience/waiting, monsters, doing what you know is right
Opening: “Some of the kids in Marilyn’s class had monsters. It was the latest thing. Marilyn didn’t have a monster. Not yet. You couldn’t just go out and get one. Your monster had to find you. That’s just the way it worked.”
Brief Synopsis: Marilyn longs for her monster to find her. She tries to be patient and be the kind of girl no monster can resist. But the longer she waits, the harder it gets, until finally Marilyn takes matters into her own hands. And it’s a good thing she does!
Links To Resources: Marilyn’s Monster Story Time Kit; Q&A with Michelle Knudsen and Matt Phelan
Why I Like This Book: Oh, gosh! Where to begin? The story is wonderfully original and entertaining, and relates to a theme all kids can understand – having to wait for things! Marilyn is so believably child-like in her behaviors and emotions. The art is delightful, full of wacky monsters that are tons of fun to look at, and Marilyn’s face and body language are so expressive. Marilyn goes against expectation without being disobedient or breaking any rules, so it’s a nice way to model doing what you know is right, or being true to yourself. And the resolution is surprisingly sweet. Across the board, this one is a winner!
For the complete list of books with resources, please visit Perfect Picture Books.
PPBF folks, please add your titles and post-specific links (and any other info you feel like filling out 🙂 ) to the form below so we can all come see what fabulous picture books you’ve chosen to share this week!
Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!!! 🙂
And wish me luck at today’s school visit! New presentation. . . little bit o’ shaking in my astronaut boots. . .! 🙂
Susanna Leonard Hill 
Susanna, I remember this book. I haven’t thought about it for a long time. I remember giggling over it at the library. Thank you for reminding me of it.
What a cute book Susanna, I love the illustrations. Have a great weekend.
This book looks like a fun read! I’ll be on the lookout for it!
What a fun read. Love the theme, being true to yourself.
I’ve read this one and it’s great! Thanks for reminding me of it. 🙂
I’ve read this! And yes! What a great story twist! Hope you’re having fun wherever you are!
This book looks wonderful! Thank you for highlighting it!!
This sounds adorable. Can’t wait to check it out.
What a fun book, Susanna! And I love the opening lines. They really hook me in and make me want to find out what happens!
I too love this book, and you have given me good reason to read and enjoy it again! Thank you for the nudge. And you will no doubt have a great school visit! Wishing you all the best!