Leonardo the Terrible Monster by Mo Willems

 

Leonardo the Terrible Monster by Mo Willems

Bibliography: 

Willems, M. (2008). Leonardo the terrible monster. Walker Books Ltd.

Plot Summary: 

At head of title: Your pal Mo Willems presents. Regardless of all his efforts, Leonardo the monster simply cannot seem to frighten anyone, until he meets the perfect nervous little boy.

Critical Analysis:

Poor Leonardo is terrible at being a monster. He doesn't have 1,642 teeth like Tony. He isn't big like Eleanor. And he isn't `just plain weird' like Hector. Despite his best efforts, Leonardo cannot scare anyone and it makes him very sad. Hope returns to Leonardo after he comes up with the idea of trying to scare the most scaredy-cat kid in the whole world, Sam. However, Sam has other things on his mind and after his latest failed attempt, Leonardo makes a big decision that will impact his monster-ness. The drawings in Mo Willems' simply-illustrated picture book do wonders to effect the mood and emotion of the characters and the feel of the story. Though each page contains a simple line of text, the pictures tell the real story. The use of space and perspective allows the audience to feel as small and defeated as Leonardo as he struggles through all of his failed attempts at being ferocious. Children will love following Leonardo's attempts at being scary and adults will root for Leonardo and appreciate his final decision. The book is said to be for audiences `as young as 3 and as old as 36' but the feel created by Willems' gentle illustrations and simple text will guarantee to adore audiences well into their golden years.

Review Excerpt: 

Horn Book Guide starred (Spring 2006)

"Leonardo the monster can't scare anyone, so he targets Sam, "the most scaredy-cat kid in the whole world." He makes Sam cry, but not, Sam says, because he's scared--he's having a very bad day. Leonardo decides: "instead of being a terrible monster, he would become a wonderful friend." Willems's theatrical story plays out on tall, uncluttered, muted-color pages."

Connections:

- If you are a fan of Mo Willems

- Have a different book by Mo Willems other than the go tos. 

- A wonderful story about friendship and individuality