Publishers Weekly
Bela, a vampire with a fanged overbite, and his witch friend, Morgan, set out to look for children on Halloween night, though they aren't sure they exist ("I've heard they like to swing and climb," Bela says). But when they attend a party, they discover that the partygoers are actually children dressed in Halloween costumes. The use of speech balloons adds to the intimacy of Brown's detail-rich scenes, and the absence of parental figures contributes to an exultant mood. The lyrical, understated prose and clever outsider's perspective on the holiday might make this a new seasonal favorite. Ages 3–7. (Aug.)
Children's Literature
- Carrie Hane Hung
Evening arrives on a special night. Bela the vampire boy wakes up, gets dressed and goes to visit his friend, Morgan, a witch. The two of them are about to embark on an adventure to look for children. Bela is eager to find them; on the other hand, Morgan doesn't believe that there are such beings as children. However, they fly on Morgan's broom in search for children with rosy cheeks and white teeth. It happens to be Halloween night and they discover a party with children dressed in costumes. Bela and Morgan are invited to join the party. As they compare themselves with the children, they discover a few interesting surprises about the children who are attending the costume party. Although the illustrations have some interesting details that are related to vampires and witches, the story could have used more of Bela and Morgan's insights and perspectives about the children and the activities that occur during the party. Reviewer: Carrie Hane Hung
School Library Journal
PreS-K—Bela, Boy Vampire, and his witch friend Morgan fly across town on Morgan's broom, looking for children with rosy cheeks and tiny white teeth. The friends are attracted to a well-lit house and discover a Halloween party with warty witches, ghosts, goblins, pirates, and vampires. Although Bela and Morgan seem to fit right in, they experience some puzzling moments, as when a scary vampire wins the costume contest, and the vampire isn't Bela. At evening's end, the masks come off and rosy-cheeked children are revealed. Morgan flies Bela home, where he falls asleep in his coffin bed, hugging his stuffed bat. The brief text and gentle illustrations work together in telling this Halloween story. The double-page illustrations are simple and uncluttered, but include clever details. Adults in particular will appreciate the books scattered on Morgan's floor. Titles include The Crucible and The Witch of Blackbird Pond. This friendly story will delight, but not frighten young readers. It's a good addition to holiday collections.—Carolyn Janssen, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH
