Big Scary Monster

The Big Scary Monster is a furry, blue bully with a strong resemblance to Gossamer, the orange Looney Tunes creature. He regularly scares the little animals who live on his mountaintop, but when he hatches a plan to terrorize the animals further below, he discovers that though they look small from the top, they're actually quite large: "The Big Scary Monster had never felt so small and scared in his life." Docherty's polished landscapes also recall classic animation, with solid shadows and artful play with perspective. The monster's comeuppance and Grinchlike redemption offer a satisfying if slightly treacly conclusion. Ages 3–5. (July)