Frank the Monster (Mats Strandberg, trans Julia Marshall, illus Sofia Falkenhem, Gecko)

Frank the Monster is a gentle introduction to horror in chapter-book form, written by Swedish writer Mats Strandberg and translated into English by Julia Marshall. The story follows Frank, a 9-year-old misfit who has never had close friends but is enjoying the freedom of his summer holidays, even if it means spending time with his little brother. After being bitten by a neighbour’s dog, Frank discovers he can shapeshift. When he begins sneaking out at night in his friendly monster form, rumours quickly spiral through the small town of Yrred, transforming Frank into something far more frightening than the truth. In reality, Frank the Monster is little more than a dog who wants his tummy scratched. The fear-driven and increasingly aggressive actions of the townspeople leave Frank feeling even more outcast and misunderstood, until a group of other monsters steps in to help him find a sense of belonging. With 2-colour digital illustrations by Sofia Falkenhem, Frank the Monster is the first in a series and a powerful story about friendships, difference, the power of judgement and what the world would be like if friendly monsters were part of society. Each short, fast-paced chapter is just 1 or 2 scenes, drawing young readers aged 6 to 10 into the thrill of the action while encouraging reflection on friendship and identity through uncomplicated language and short sentences.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Clare Millar is a writer, editor and children's bookseller. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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