By GLENN TOLLE
If you regularly read this column, you’ll know that I love collections of creepy children’s poems. Most contain previously published work from a variety of authors and Seldom do I come across a poetry book written and illustrated by a single author. But there are exceptions, such as EVEN SCARY THINGS GET THE BLUES written and illustrated by David Buckner.
EVEN SCARY THINGS GET THE BLUES is a fresh, and funny, silly and sympathetic look at monsters of all ages and descriptions. The majority of the poems feature monsters with problems, many of which seem unique to their species and/or disposition. But the reality is that most of the problems these monsters face, such as aging and acceptance, are also human problems.
Among the usual cast of creatures are wholly original monsters, such as the veerryyy slow-moving Lovecraftian sloth the Dillygroth, and the flightless (by choice) Flepto, both of which harken back to a tradition pioneered by the great Theodor Geisel a.k.a. Dr. Seuss, and a few other brave children’s authors who dared their own unique creations. Unlike many children’s authors who don’t bother creating their own critters, they just riff off of the classics and their tropes.
Among my favourite poems in EVEN SCARY THINGS GET THE BLUES is “Baby Monsters,” which had be dabbing at my compound eyes after reading the last line.
EVEN SCARY THINGS GET THE BLUES is a fearless little book of frighteningly good verse and illustrations. Please, don’t pull those sheets over your head, get out of bed and buy this book instead!
