The Monster Who Wasn't

It is a fortuitous event that spawns The Imp: a baby's first laugh, intertwined with a last sigh from her grandfather. This rarest of magic creates a Monster Who Wasn't. Named Imp by the gargoyles who adopt him, he is a rare creature indeed, human looking but with monster qualities but he possesses something more - something the monsters desire. As he rapidly learns about the world around him, he encounters some special humans. The bond he feels to them leads him on a nail-biting adventure. But will they love him or blame him for the terrible thing that has happened? Author TC Shelley builds oodles of tension in her book as we fly from page to page desperate to know just what will happen to Samuel and his gargoyle friend. The imaginative world of monsters, imps, pixies, gargoyles and many more are brought to life with graphic descriptions and terrifying action as she allows us mere humans a glimpse into the magical world that is swirling around us. Recommended for ages 7+. Curriculum links to descriptive writing, creating tension, new beginnings, friendships, hope, love, loyalty, bullying and resilience. 288 pages / Ages 7-10 years / Reviewed by Donna Burkert, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 7+