Monster Nanny by Tuutikki Tolonen
Allen and Unwin, 2020. ISBN: 9781760525590. pbk., 298 pp.
(Age: 7-11) Monster Nanny the title says it all. If you're a
Roald Dahl fan you will enjoy reading Monster Nanny by
Finnish author Tuutikki Tolonen. I found it was a refreshing change
of pace from the majority of books out there and a nice return to
timeless adventure. As soon as I saw the cover I thought of Where
The Wild Things Are and yes the monsters did remind me of the
book.
Halley, Koby and Mimi's mum has won a spa trip to Lapland and due to
Invisible Voice (the dad) always being away for work and not being
able to be there to watch the kids, a nanny has been promised to
watch the kids. This nanny is no ordinary nanny but a huge, half
human, hairy, dirty, dust covered monster. Mum has been convinced
that the monster is ok and is part of a "secret special experiment .
. . researching new options for child care work" so off she goes and
the children are left in the care of Monster Nanny.
Monster Nanny is a delightful read that any middle school
student will enjoy. The children in the story were easy to relate to
and take us on an adventure to discover who the monster is and where
it came from. Along the way we meet other monsters, a talking robe
and little monster mosquitos.
This is one book I would add to my shelf in the classroom for all
kids to enjoy. Before I forget, the black and white illustrations in
the book were a great addition. Looking forward to reading more
books from Tolonen.
Maria Komninos