J.W. Zarek’s The Stomp-Clomp-Clump Monster Above the Bed is a delightful tale that introduces readers to three unforgettable dust bunnies. There’s Brutus Bunfluff, bold and fearless; Gunnar Puffbutz, timid and cautious; and Dust Puff Ted, ever the germophobe. Together, they live in cozy harmony beneath a bed, passing their days with quiet mornings, playful afternoons, and evenings filled with stories.

Their calm world is suddenly shaken when thunderous stomps and clomps echo overhead. Startled and frightened, the dust bunnies believe a terrifying monster has invaded their peaceful space. What they don’t realize is that the noise belongs to Billy, a little boy entirely unaware of the chaos he causes. Determined to uncover the truth, the trio secretly observes him, eager to decide if this “monster” is truly dangerous or perhaps a friend in disguise.

Zarek crafts the story with wit and charm, flipping expectations in a clever role reversal. Here, Billy takes on the role of the monster while the dust bunnies embody the frightened children. This twist adds a layer of humor that keeps readers grinning. I found myself laughing at the dust bunnies’ wild imaginations, especially when they mistake ordinary objects, a red crayon, some blocks, even a sticky patch of cherry goo, for dangerous traps. Their horrified commentary on Billy’s messy room was equally amusing, their cries for “order” perfectly capturing their quirky personalities.

The lively illustrations bring every scene to life, brimming with color and energy that feel straight out of a cartoon. The combination of text and artwork makes the story engaging and easy to visualize. In the end, the supposed monster becomes a friend, as Billy and the bunnies share cookies, and peace replaces fear.

At its heart, this story delivers a timeless lesson: don’t judge others by appearances. Friendship often comes from unexpected places if we’re willing to give others a chance. Both fun and meaningful, The Stomp-Clomp-Clump Monster Above the Bed is a book young readers will want to revisit again and again. I highly recommend it as a joyful read-aloud for families.

Pages: 44 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0FQ7T1WHX