Little Boo

A spectral narrator chronicles the ups and downs of older siblinghood in this relatable tale spotlighting family dynamics. As a "sweet and adorable baby," Little Boo proves an ideal bestie to the older sib, as captured in simply drawn comics depicting the young ghoul being pulled in a spider-like wagon. But the duo's relationship sours when Little Boo learns to crawl, float, and generally "do the most annoying things ever," including jumping out of a cereal box to say "boo!" Envisioning that a more harmonious alliance would be possible with a vampire, witch, or other being, the beanie-wearing, bespectacled older apparition works out a trade with a similarly beleaguered werewolf pal. Comedically, the swap turns to trouble after replacement Little Howl goes wild in search of a snack, filling multiple panels with hilarious attempts at nomming everything in sight--and leading to the subject's sweetly renewed appreciation for Little Boo. Ages 4--8. (July)

PreS-Gr 2--A charming and humorous take on sibling relationships with a spooky twist, this book follows a child who finds their younger ghostly sibling both exasperating and endearing. As Little Boo learns to crawl--and float--their antics become increasingly annoying, leading the older sibling to wonder if a witch or a vampire might have made a better sibling instead. A temporary trade with a friend reveals that even "perfect" siblings have their own monstrous quirks. Frost's playful digital illustrations bring warmth and humor to the holiday-inspired story, making it a compelling read for young audiences. With themes of sibling rivalry, acceptance, and unconditional love, this book will resonate with families navigating similar dynamics. Fans of Natasha Wing's The Night Before the New Baby and Lucy Ruth Cummins's Vampenguin will enjoy this lighthearted and visually appealing tale. VERDICT An exhilarating seasonal pick that will appeal to little ghouls and their occasionally frustrated older siblings.--Amanda Chacon

With a bit of perspective, a ghost learns to accept a baby sibling. Big Boo, who narrates, enjoys a blissful few early months with Little Boo, "a sweet and adorable baby." Things are easy enough when Little Boo is too small to do much of anything; Little Boo listens as Big Boo talks, and Big Boo ferries the younger spirit around. Then comes the day when Little Boo learns to crawl, then float, and, at last, talk. Little Boo becomes an annoying, constant presence whose declarations of love are trying. Big Boo's werewolf friend Howl, on the other hand, has a sibling who seems enviably calm (and who shares Big Boo's love of literature). Howl points out that "Little Howl is a little monster," but Big Boo nevertheless accepts a sibling trade. Oops…what a mistake! Maybe Little Boo isn't such a trial after all? The cute and relatable plot is only half the attraction. Readers will pore over countless details in the Boo household: the alligator chairs and dining table, Little Boo's owl highchair and hollow-pumpkin bassinet, the snake chandelier, the Venus fly trap desk lamp, the bat bathmat, and the candy corn--chomping squirrels rapturously hailed by Little Boo as "Kitteez!!!" Graphic novel--esque panels and speech bubbles, as well as simple but frenzied linework, give Frost plenty of scope for clever comic effects to fuel rereading. A hauntingly funny tale of family love.(Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.