A Strange Little Monster

Name: A Strange Little Monster
ISBN: 9780143304784

by Sue Whiting

For the child who feels like an outsider or struggles to fit in, this charming chapter book explores what it means to be truly unique and accepted.

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About This Book

Reach for this book when your child feels like an outsider or worries they aren't 'good enough' at being what others expect. A Strange Little Monster is a gentle, humorous chapter book about a small monster who arrives in town determined to be scary. To his dismay, everyone finds him cute and charming instead. This delightful story explores his feelings of failure and loneliness until he meets a girl who accepts him for who he is, not who he's supposed to be. It's a wonderful tool for discussing themes of self-acceptance, belonging, and the true meaning of friendship. Perfect for early independent readers aged 6-9, it reassures children that their unique qualities are what make them special.

Loneliness & Belonging Being Different Monsters Self-Confidence & Identity Making Friends Humor Friendship & Social Empathy & Kindness

What Parents Should Know

Sad ThemesMild

The monster feels lonely and like a failure, but these feelings are temporary and resolved happily.

Sensitive Topics

The book deals metaphorically with feelings of inadequacy, social pressure, and the loneliness that comes from feeling different. The approach is gentle, secular, and uses the 'monster' identity as a stand-in for any way a child might feel they don't meet expectations. The resolution is entirely positive and hopeful, emphasizing self-acceptance and the value of true friendship.