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Screenwise Verdict
This is one of those rare picture books that's both clever and genuinely useful. The die-cut pages aren't just a gimmick—they create a real sense of agency for little kids who are figuring out how to manage big feelings.
At 30+ years old, it holds up remarkably well because the format is timeless and the message is straightforward: you can face scary things and make them go away. It's not going to win points for narrative complexity, but that's not the job here.
If your kid is in the monster-under-the-bed phase, this book is basically a therapeutic tool disguised as a bedtime story. And unlike some 'empowerment' books that feel preachy, this one just lets kids yell 'GO AWAY!' at colorful body parts, which is exactly the vibe a 3-year-old needs.
Age Fit
Best for ages 2-6, especially kids working through nighttime fears or monster anxiety. The interactive format and simple text make it perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who want to feel in control.
WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
92
A gentle, empowering approach to bedtime fears that gives kids agency without being scary or chaotic. The tone is playful and supportive—kids literally tell the monster to go away piece by piece, building confidence. No mean-spirited content, just pure 'you're in charge' energy.
Imaginative
88
The die-cut page format is genuinely clever—watching the monster build up and then disappear creates a tactile, interactive experience that invites kids to participate in the storytelling. Emberley's vibrant illustrations and the call-and-response structure encourage kids to use their imagination to 'control' their fears through play.
Safe
98
About as safe as books get. The 'monster' is colorful and cartoonish, never genuinely frightening. The whole point is mastering fear in a controlled, empowering way. No surprise scares, no mature themes, no content concerns whatsoever.
Enriching
85
Teaches emotional regulation and agency in a concrete, age-appropriate way—kids learn they can face and dismiss their fears. The interactive format builds confidence and gives children a sense of control. It's not teaching ABCs or science, but the social-emotional learning here is solid and developmentally valuable.
Parent Info
✓
Why It Might Be Great
Gives kids actual agency over their bedtime fears in a concrete, hands-on way
The die-cut format is tactile and engaging—kids physically 'control' the monster by turning pages
Simple, repetitive text is perfect for toddlers who want to 'read' along and shout commands
Over 1.3 million copies sold because it actually works—parents report kids feeling empowered
Vibrant, bold illustrations from Caldecott winner Ed Emberley keep it visually interesting
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What to Watch For
The monster is cartoonish and friendly-looking, but very sensitive kids might still find the initial build-up slightly tense
It's a short, simple book—don't expect a complex narrative or deep story
Once kids 'get' the concept, they may want to read it 47 times in a row (which is the point, but fair warning)
Conversation Starters
"What would you say to make the monster go away faster?"
"If you could make your own monster book, what color would your monster be?"
"What's something that seems scary at first but isn't really scary when you look closer?"
"Do you think the monster is actually mean, or just silly-looking?"
