About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to find their footing at a new school or feeling like the odd one out in a group. It uses the safe, controlled lens of horror to explore the genuine anxiety of navigating social hierarchies and unfamiliar environments. Kelly Crosby is the perennial new kid, and his struggle to belong is one that many children will find deeply relatable, even before the supernatural elements kick in. While the book features a literal monster in the school basement, the true heart of the story lies in Kelly's attempts to make friends and handle the pressure of being the center of attention for the wrong reasons. R. L. Stine's signature style provides a fast-paced, spooky escape that normalizes the jitters and loneliness of 'new kid' status. It is an ideal pick for middle-grade readers who want a thrilling story that mirrors their real-world social worries in a fantastical way.
