Ok, after my last book I thought we could all use a fun Junior Fiction book break. And boy do I have a good Halloween book for you!
Nightmares, by Jason Segel and Kirsten Miller (2014)
Delacorte Press, 355 pgs (hardback) Ages 8-12
Charlie Laird is a unique boy with a common problem. He hates his stepmom and he has nightmares, like lots of them. Every night. So bad he can’t sleep and turns into a sort of walking coffee swilling nightmare himself. But what if his nightmares are real? And his mother in law really does have a secret. A really big secret.
That is what is behind a new series by Muppets and Despicable me writer Jason Segel and veteran writer Kirsten Miller. Now there is nothing especially remarkable about a story that revolves around nightmares, or portals to another realm, or even a child hating their step parent. What is remarkable is despite a rather dark and grim beginning the story ultimately is all about conquering your fears and learning to forgive. And that is a great message. So I will be recommending this book for our library and keeping my copy for my own library. And remember that even Nightmares can have a positive purpose.
Parents note that this is about nightmares, but despite some slightly scary imagery it is a great Junior Fiction Novel with just enough action and humor to keep anyone engaged.