THE MONSTORE by TARA LAZAR

    

      TARA LAZAR'S debut picture book, THE MONSTORE is a marvellous, monstrous tale of sibling troubles.  TARA is well-known in children's literature circle for her championing and passion for picture books and their writers and illustrators. Her professionalism and respect transfers into her writing THE MONSTORE, a fast, fun read with twists.  It tickles the reader.  
     TARA takes a brother and little sister relationship and universalizes it in a sophisticated way where the reader or listener relate to both.  Through her ability to spin a unique story, she maintains the tension between siblings and creates a reader/listener rooting and cheering for them and the loveable monsters.  THE MONSTORE leaves the reader smiling and wanting more.  I promised TARA, I would not give away the tricks, twists, nor ending. 
      THE MONSTORE employs a nameless character with the cleverness of Dr. Seuss's Sylvester McMonkey McBean. This monster of a  manager artfully teases and tenses the reader/listener.  Placing TARA'S text with JAMES  BURKS larger than life illustrations completes the package.  Reading THE MONSTORE, one would never suspect this picture book to be TARA'S first. I can't wait for her future books to come out. 

 I give this book 5 apples, cream of the crop. The ability of an author to successfully carry-out empathy and rooting for both characters while creating a modern day McBean with twists and turns makes this a stand-out book.  


     This picture book is for children 4 through 8.  It has high appeal for boys and girls.  This would be a great addition to a home, classroom, or library bookshelf. The themes in the book are siblings and rivalry, family, fairness, and resolving problems. 


    

 If you want to find out more about author Tara Lazar, check out her website at:Tara's Website.  THE MONSTORE is published by  Aladdin, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing and is available at Barnes and Noble, online and through your local independent bookseller.