The Attic Door is a delightful and touching story about a little boy named Eduardo who faces a mysterious and creepy door in his new bedroom. Strange noises in the night send him into a panic, clutching his stuffed alligator, Russell, for protection. What follows is a sweet mix of fear, bravery, and humor as Eduardo musters the courage to investigate with the help of his mom. The book closes on a gentle note of honesty and resilience as Eduardo blames his bedwetting on poor Russell, all while asserting his bravery.

I found the writing charming and real. Tayloe taps into a very honest childhood fear—the unknown creaks and groans of a new home—and brings it to life with warmth and humor. The dialogue is simple but full of personality, especially Eduardo’s conversations with Russell, which made me smile. I appreciated how Tayloe handled bedwetting without shame, turning it into a small moment of tenderness and trust between a child and a parent. There’s a genuine affection in every sentence. The pacing was smooth, and the sounds were fun to read aloud and added a playful layer of tension that kids will enjoy.

David Barrow’s illustrations are just as memorable. They have a soft and cozy quality while still capturing the spooky tension of the attic door. There’s a touch of whimsy in the way he draws Eduardo and Russell that made me feel nostalgic. The art is expressive but not overwhelming, which gives room for the words to breathe. It’s a perfect pairing. I absolutely adored the scene where Eduardo and Russell are peeking out from under the covers.

The Attic Door is about facing fears, learning what’s real and what’s imagined, and growing just a little bit braver. I’d recommend it for kids ages 4–8, especially those dealing with new routines, big changes, or nighttime worries. It’s a warm hug of a story with a wink and a giggle tucked inside. Parents will love reading this one aloud, and kids will see a bit of themselves in Eduardo.

Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DDLJ4165