Mellybean and the Giant Monster; Mike White

Mellybean and the Giant Monster is a delightful addition to the selection of graphic novels for lower middle grade readers. Author Mike White takes inspiration from his own pets and gives readers an action-packed fantasy adventure with bags of humour and heart.

Black dog Mellybean (Melly for short) loves to play. Unfortunately, all of the cats that she lives with prefer nap-time to play-time. A game of hide the shoe takes an unexpected turn when in digging a hiding hole, Melly finds herself tumbling into a kingdom ruled by a greedy king and an army of knights intent on catching a rather frightened and upset monster.

Torn between wanting to help the monster and return home, Melly takes on a rescue mission where she will need to play the game of her life to save the kingdom and avoid being locked up in the dungeons forever more…

This is such a cute and adorable story that will appeal to many children. I recommend it for readers of seven and up but it could easily be enjoyed by younger readers with the support of an adult.

Main protagonist Melly makes for a great heroine. With her infectious personality, love for life and sense of adventure, readers will quickly warm to her and will be rooting for her throughout as she finds herself in a magical world where she must risk her own homely life for the good of others and to free them from the rule of a horrible king. After successfully defeating the king, a portal is revealed that links Nelly’s world and the magical world which suggests that more adventures await.

Told over several chapters, the action plays out in large, colourful panels, playful illustrations and speech bubble dialogue. The story embraces messages on friendship and teamwork.

Recommended for 7+.