How to Make a Pet Monster: Flummox by Lili Wilkinson. Illus. by Dustin Spence

Artie and Willow have the means to create their own monsters. They own a spell book called “The Bigge Boke of Fetching Monsters”. The spells contain unique items, so Willow creates the latest monster by getting as close as possible to the ingredients. The adaption of the spells can create some wildly unusual creatures.

In the first book in the series a monster called “Hodgepodge” was created. He is Artie’s monster and Willow wanted a monster friend for herself. She does create a new chicken like creature called Flummox.

Willow and Artie’s plans to spend time with the spell book and their monsters are thwarted by the arrival of Arabella-Rose who needs to wait at their home waiting for the late arrival of her uncle. Willow does not enjoy Arabella-Rose’s company and things get difficult when Willow and Artie try to hide the monsters from their unwelcome guest.

This is a light-hearted novel involving magic and friendship. The pages contain many black and white illustrations by Dustin Spence and his cartoon style makes the story more exciting and easier to read. It is interesting to see the interaction between Artie and Willow who are now part of a blended family and Arabella-Rose’s introduction adds to the drama of the situation.

I was able to pick up the storyline from the first book (I did not read) very easily and it is obvious from the novel’s ending that there are more characters and stories to come.

This is a good fit for 7 to 10 year olds.

The Allen and Unwin Facebook page have some little videos advertising the series. Teacher's tips are available.

Themes: Monster, Blended families.

Jane Moore