I don't know if it's the weird way my mind works or what, but I have never been able to decipher sign language when I see it printed out - I can't do shadow pictures either! The image and the hand movements just don't align in my brain. However, that didn't stop me from enjoying this delightful story that's a perfect combination of friendship and dealing with night-time fears.
Milo, a plump little boy with a bowl cut and glasses, reads some classic stories before bed, including Where the wild things are and a book about "a monster under the bed." The soft blues and purples his room turn creepy as red eyes and clawing hands appear under the bed. "Milo should not have read that book." Milo signals with his flashlight to get the attention of his best friend, Mel, a slim girl with short dark hair and tanned skin. They hold a conversation, signing back and forth, as Mel encourages Milo with her own experiences in scaring away monsters. But Milo, even with shadowy monster hands, is still afraid. Together, the two friends come up with a way to scare away the monsters for good and the night ends with the two using their monster hands to send each other a hug across the street.
Even with my weird mental block, I can figure out exactly what the kids are doing and imitate it and so will kids! It's a delightful introduction to signing as well as a sweet friendship story.
Verdict: A great choice for storytime, this story seamlessly weaves Deaf culture into a warm and comforting story. Recommended.
ISBN: 9780593532294; Reinforced/Picture book on Baker & Taylor for $15.19
Published May 2024 by Nancy Paulsen Books; Review copy provided by publisher; Donated to the library
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