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GOBLINS

Brian Froud.

Toronto, Macmillan, c1983.
unpaged, paperbound boards, $12.95.
ISBN 0-7715-9786-X.


K-Grade 3.
Reviewed by Patricia Fry.

Volume 12 Number 1
1984 January


Goblins by Brian Froud delivers a visual punch with drawings so detailed they are mesmerizing. The powerful, colourful illustrations feature grotesque goblins leering at the reader. Each page, made of coated heavy paper, has a pop-up whereby a goblin emerges from a hiding place. The text, consisting of one line per page, has Edward repeatedly trying to show the goblins to a skeptical Myrtle. She sees a thorn tree on one page, three toads on another, but does not see the lurking goblins even when the reader manipulates the pull-out tabs.

The goblins are large, making this book a good choice for a read-aloud session with a group, particularly at Hallowe'en. In fact, such physical distancing would reduce the scary impact for the fainthearted. Be forewarned that some of the younger children will find the book too scary-they'll be fascinated, but they'll get nightmares-so know your clientele before recommending it. The book's other weakness, particularly for library use, is its pop-up format. Gremlins seem to inevitably and quickly destroy the sturdiest tabs. Recommended.


Patricia Fry, Toronto, ON.
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