Common Sense Media Review
By Carrie Kingsley
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Monsters at summer camp in fun, friendly graphic novel.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Tasha's family has run Camp Yeti for generations, but with fewer yetis enrolling each year, they decide to rebrand as CAMP MONSTER, a summer camp welcoming creatures of all kinds. Tasha's excited to share the traditions she loves, but the camp's first session doesn't go smoothly. Goblins cause trouble, an ogre craves the spotlight, a werewolf keeps disappearing, and strange accidents suggest someone may be sabotaging the camp. As tensions rise, Tasha and the campers must learn to work together and embrace their differences in order to uncover the truth.
Is It Any Good?
Full of heartfelt messages about teamwork, navigating differences, and group dynamics, this vibrantly illustrated and engaging graphic novel blends the fun of summer camp with a gentle mystery. Kate Messner's Camp Monster is upbeat and relatable, capturing common childhood experiences even for kids who have never been to camp: wanting things to be perfect, learning to compromise, being surrounded by people who don't have things in common with you. Falynn Koch's expressive illustrations add warmth and humor, helping younger readers follow the story easily while giving each monster a distinct personality. The storytelling isn't complex, but its emotions, approachable tone, and emphasis on cooperation and friendship are a delight, especially for reluctant readers and fans of funny graphic novels.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why the campers' differences in Camp Monster cause conflict at first but become strengths later on. What happened to change their outlook about each other?
Why is it hard for Tasha when Camp Yeti changes into Camp Monster? Have you ever struggled with a big change? What happened?
How do first impressions affect how we treat one another? When is it important to listen to your first impressions and when is it good to reserve judgment and be open to someone new?
How do the characters work as a team to figure out the central mystery? What strengths does each monster contribute? Tell about a time you enjoyed working on a team.
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Falynn Koch
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Adventures , Fantasy ( Monsters ) , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Empathy , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Bloomsbury Children's Books
- Publication date : February 3, 2026
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 11
- Number of pages : 224
- Available on : Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : March 19, 2026
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