Review by School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 3--Get ready for a festive adventure with this lively rhyming story. Oso takes readers through all the best parts of the season--decorating, picking the perfect pumpkin, choosing a costume, and even celebrating at school. Just when everything seems set for a perfect holiday, there's a little surprise twist before things come together in the end. The rhymes bounce along with a playful rhythm, making it a fantastic read-aloud for sharing with a whole class. Knight brings the story to life with bright, full-spread artwork that captures the cozy, bustling charm of a diverse town celebrating Halloween. With so many details to discover, kids will love pointing out their favorite parts on every page. VERDICT Not a mandatory purchase, but give this one a go to boost Halloween sections. This rhyming romp is sure to get everyone excited for spooky season.--Cassie Veselovsky
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
Get ready, everyone! It's nearly time for a very important holiday. "When leaves turn brown, then tumble down," announces a brown-skinned child, "beware! / A spooky day is on its way." The young narrator goes on to offer gleeful guidance--and some clear hints--about the upcoming special event and all the enjoyable activities involved in getting ready for it, including putting up decorations ("Whatever makes you scream"), picking out a pumpkin (who's that older, pink-cheeked, white-bearded, red-suited gent the youngster spots at the pumpkin farm?), carving a jack-o'-lantern, whipping up delicious pumpkin-flavored goodies, deciding on a costume, listening to scary stories, marching in a parade, and trick-or-treating. All this comes just in time for…Christmas? Boo! Of course not! The colorful, fun-filled--but not the least bit frightening--holiday in question is, of course, HALLOWEEN! Even the youngest readers and listeners will easily catch on. Bouncy verse that scans well is paired with cheery, bright illustrations filled with familiar Halloween symbols and accoutrements--the visuals are high-spirited in every sense of the word. Background characters are racially diverse; one child uses a wheelchair. This is one treat kids will be eagerly reaching for come October.(Picture book. 4-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
