Book Review: Hazy Dell Press 5-Book Gift Set (Hazy Dell Press Monster Series)
A Monstrously Good Time: A Comprehensive Review of the Hazy Dell Press 5-Book Gift Set
Introduction: A Delightfully Spooky Adventure for Young Readers
If you’re searching for a children’s book series that blends whimsy, spookiness, and heartwarming lessons, look no further than the Hazy Dell Press Monster Series by Kyle Sullivan. This 5-book gift set is a treasure trove of charmingly eerie tales that introduce young readers to a world where monsters aren’t scary—they’re friends.
Perfect for Halloween or any time of year, these books strike a delicate balance between playful frights and gentle reassurance, making them ideal for kids who love a little adventure without the nightmares. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or a fan of monster-themed children’s literature, this set is a must-have.
In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the stories, characters, themes, and why this collection stands out in the crowded world of children’s books.
Plot Summary: A Peek into the Monster-Filled World
The Hazy Dell Press 5-Book Gift Set includes five beautifully illustrated stories, each featuring a different monster protagonist. While I won’t spoil the endings, here’s a glimpse into each book’s premise:
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“Goodnight Krampus” – A playful twist on the classic Goodnight Moon, this story follows the mischievous Krampus as he tiptoes through a shadowy forest, saying goodnight to eerie creatures.
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“Don’t Eat Me, Chupacabra!” – A hilarious tale of a goat who outsmarts the legendary Chupacabra, turning a potential predator-prey relationship into an unexpected friendship.
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“Mothman’s Merry Christmas” – A heartwarming holiday story where Mothman, often feared, becomes an unlikely hero by helping Santa Claus save Christmas.
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“The Monster at the End of This Book…” – A meta, interactive adventure where the reader is playfully warned not to turn the page—or else they’ll meet a monster!
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“The Haunted Ghoul Bus” – A rollicking ride on a ghostly school bus filled with monstrous passengers, teaching kids about bravery and camaraderie.
Each book is self-contained but shares a cohesive aesthetic and tone, making the set feel like a unified journey through a monster-filled universe.
Character Analysis: Monsters with Heart
One of the standout features of this series is how Sullivan reimagines traditionally “scary” creatures as lovable, relatable characters.
- Krampus – Often depicted as a punishing figure, here he’s more of a mischievous trickster with a soft side, making him a fun antihero.
- Chupacabra – Instead of a bloodthirsty beast, he’s a comically inept predator who learns the value of friendship.
- Mothman – A misunderstood cryptid who proves that even the most feared creatures can be kind.
These characterizations teach kids not to judge based on appearances—a timeless lesson wrapped in delightful storytelling.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Playful, Rhythmic, and Engaging
Kyle Sullivan’s writing is playful, rhythmic, and full of wit, making these books perfect for read-aloud sessions. The language is simple enough for early readers but rich with humor and charm that adults will appreciate.
The interactive elements (like breaking the fourth wall in The Monster at the End of This Book…) add an extra layer of fun, encouraging kids to engage with the story rather than passively listen.
The illustrations, vibrant and slightly gothic, complement the text beautifully, creating an immersive experience.
Themes & Deeper Meanings: More Than Just Monster Fun
Beneath the spooky surface, these books explore:
- Friendship & Acceptance – Monsters and humans (or goats!) learn to get along.
- Bravery & Facing Fears – Many stories involve characters overcoming their anxieties.
- Kindness Over Judgment – The series consistently reinforces that appearances can be deceiving.
These themes make the books not just entertaining but also valuable teaching tools for social-emotional learning.
Personal Reading Experience: Why I Loved It
As someone who grew up loving Goosebumps and The Addams Family, I adored how this series introduces spooky elements in a kid-friendly way. The humor had me chuckling, and the heartwarming endings left me smiling.
Parents will appreciate how the books normalize fear while showing that even the “scariest” things can be friendly. My favorite was Mothman’s Merry Christmas—it’s rare to find a holiday book with such a unique protagonist!
Comparison to Other Works in the Genre
Fans of Jon Klassen’s I Want My Hat Back or Aaron Reynolds’ Creepy Carrots! will enjoy the dark humor and playful tone. The series also shares DNA with classic monster-themed kids’ books like Where the Wild Things Are but with a modern, inclusive twist.
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
✅ Strengths:
- Gorgeous, engaging illustrations
- Clever, humorous writing
- Strong moral lessons without preachiness
- Great for reluctant readers
❌ Minor Weaknesses:
- Some stories are slightly shorter than expected (though this keeps attention spans engaged).
- A few parents might find one or two monsters slightly intense for very sensitive kids (but most will love them).
Target Audience: Who Will Love This Set?
- Ages 3-8 (perfect for preschool to early elementary)
- Parents who love Halloween & spooky stories
- Teachers looking for fun read-aloud books
- Fans of monster lore who want kid-friendly versions
Memorable Quotes & Passages
“Don’t eat me, Chupacabra! I’m much too stringy… and possibly poisonous!” – A hilarious line that had my little one giggling.
“Even monsters need a friend sometimes.” – A sweet reminder from Mothman’s Merry Christmas.
Cultural & Historical Context
The series cleverly reclaims folklore monsters (Krampus, Chupacabra, Mothman) and makes them accessible to kids. It’s a fun way to introduce global myths in a lighthearted manner.
Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Monster-Loving Families
The Hazy Dell Press 5-Book Gift Set is a winning combination of humor, heart, and just the right amount of spookiness. Whether you’re buying it for a child, a classroom, or just because you love creative monster tales, this collection delivers.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- Which monster was your favorite, and why?
- Did these books make you see any “scary” creatures differently?
- Would you like to see more monster-themed children’s books like these?
Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear what you think! 👻📚
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