What did you think that shape was before you lifted the flap?

This is a discussion prompt for Monster, Monster by Melanie Walsh. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What makes something look scary at first, but then turn out to be funny?

This is a discussion prompt for Monster, Monster by Melanie Walsh. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Can you find other shapes in our house that look like something else?

This is a discussion prompt for Monster, Monster by Melanie Walsh. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Find on Amazon

Monster, Monster

Name: Monster, Monster
ISBN: 9780763616694

by Melanie Walsh

Little ones will love lift-the-flap surprises that turn scary shapes into silly friends in this playful hide-and-seek story.

About This Book

There's a monster in the house, but where is it? Each scary shape in this book looks like it must be the one, but young readers will laugh when they see the silly surprises behind the flaps. Full-color illustrations.

Concepts

Joy & Gratitude Curiosity & Wonder Fear & Bravery Creativity & Imagination Self-Confidence & Identity Monsters Puzzles & Games

Heads up, parents

Scary Scenes

Wonderlit Review

Monster, Monster by Melanie Walsh is a delightful and interactive lift-the-flap book designed to gently introduce young children to mild suspense and the joy of discovery. The premise involves a search for a monster within a house, with each page presenting an ambiguous, 'scary' shape. The genius lies in the reveal: lifting a flap transforms the intimidating outline into a familiar, often humorous, everyday object. This book handles the concept of fear in a very lighthearted, secular way, quickly turning potential anxiety into laughter. The emotional arc is one of gentle suspense followed by immediate, satisfying relief and humor. It's ideal for preschoolers and early elementary children (ages 3-6) who might be exploring what it means to be scared, or simply enjoy interactive storytelling. Parents might reach for this when their child is showing early signs of imaginative fears, or just for a fun, engaging read-aloud. There are no truly scary scenes to preview; the 'scary' elements are immediately defused. Younger children will enjoy the tactile experience of the flaps and the simple reveals, while slightly older children might enjoy guessing what the shapes are before the reveal. Its interactive nature and quick, humorous resolutions set it apart from more overtly scary monster books, making it a comforting and entertaining choice.