Mon-staa, written by Diana Aleksandrova and illustrated by Chris Borodina, is a sweet story about a creature called Monster. Interestingly, with his fur similar to dreadlocks and mild mannerisms, he’s more like a Puli dog than a monster, but he scares birds, cats, dogs, and people because of his matted coat, yellow teeth, and dirty nails.
However, one little girl, named Nikki, befriends him in the park, even though her parents don’t want her to go near him. When the family leaves, Nikki sneaks Monster into her backpack and takes him home. While doing this is deceptive toward her parents, not to mention dangerous as a strange animal may have rabies, Monster shows to be a lovable companion, especially as he sleeps next to her as a pet would.
Her parents find out what Nikki did, and to convince them to keep Monster, she grooms him. It’s impressive for a young child to bathe and clip his nails by herself—if only I have as easy a time clipping my Corgi’s nails—but it shows how well-behaved Monster is.
Thanks to Nikki, Monster changes from a dirty beast into a pristine, Shih Tzu-like critter. The parents let her keep him, and she calls him Monster, but as an affectionate term. Her little brother, who before cried “Mon-staa” out of terror, now says “Mon-staa” as he laughs while the creature licks him.
Preschoolers through first-graders will love this fantasy animal story, as well as the illustrations with their neon pinks, yellows, greens, and blues. The night scenes have pale yellow sparkles and flashing lights that add the feeling of fantastical wonder. Monster’s transformation demonstrates how keeping groomed and clean leaves a positive first impression, yet inner beauty is what people should draw to the most. And genuine friends look at what’s underneath a person’s skin, just as Nikki spends time with Monster and learns he’s a great pal.
Mon-staa
With kindness and love, a little girl gives a scary creature an amazing transformation and a chance of happiness.
Monster lived in the park.
At night, he slept alone under a bush.
During the day, he tried to get other creatures to play with him.
Flap! Flap!
The birds would fly away, scared of his matted coat.
Meowooo!
The cats would puff their tails and run at the sight of his dirty nails.
Ruff! Ruff!
The dogs would growl and bark at his yellow teeth.
HE WORRIED HE WOULD NEVER FIND A FRIEND!!!
One day, a little girl sees past Monster’s ugly exterior, gives him a chance, and reveals his true beauty.
“Never judge at first glance, give everyone a chance!’ Diana
