Spooky, Scary Skeletons

July 15, 2024
In this picture book based on Gold's popular song, a group of costumed children shriek and screech on Halloween. Youngsters wearing skeleton outfits assemble and prepare for spooky fun. They imagine themselves as the real deal--bones come to life--while getting ready and posing for photos. As they trick-or-treat, they surprise other members of the community. Later, they put on a silly performance, with actual skeletons joining in, before heading home for some hard-earned rest. Adults familiar with the hit tune--which was recorded in 1996 and has since gone viral on social media--might pick up this one based on that recognition. The illustrations loosely take inspiration from the lyrics and serve as the primary driver for the storytelling. They make excellent use of fall colors and exude a sunset glow that truly evokes Halloween. Sometimes the text and visuals align, but at other times the images tell the story independently: Gold's goofy lyrics describe skeletons rising from their sarcophagi to "send shiiiiivers down your spine" and "SHOCK your soul," while the gentle visuals mostly focus on trick-or-treating, with real skeletons occasionally jumping into the fray. The result is a muddled--though still enjoyable--reading experience. Most human characters are light-skinned, though people of color appear as well. A disjointed read that nevertheless will elicit warm seasonal feelings.(Picture book. 3-5)

COPYRIGHT(2024) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

October 4, 2024

PreS-Gr 3-This illustrated version of Andrew Gold's popular Halloween hit song is sure to get youngsters and their adults up shaking their bones. Five little skeletons gear up for Halloween night, heading out to collect treats and pull a few tricks on the neighbors. The whole neighborhood gets in on the Halloween fun, starting with making costumes, trick-or-treating, and, of course, dancing! The song has become a seasonal favorite on many social media platforms, so young and old alike should be familiar with the tune. The book lends itself well in supporting early literacy practices. Turn it into a day of fun: sing the book, create a rhyme, learn the dance together, and make a fun skeleton craft. Lovsin's vibrant, full-color illustrations in warm fall shades feel alive, as if each brushstroke dances along with the melody. Simple characters burst with color and emotion, making it easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit. Grab a copy of this book to bring some musical magic and fun to holiday reading! VERDICT This well-loved tune, now in book form, is a perfect addition to any Halloween collection.-Cassie Veselovsky

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.