About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is pushing boundaries or struggling to understand why rules exist even when they seem arbitrary. It is a perfect fit for the middle grade reader who enjoys a thrill but needs a safe, fictional space to explore the consequences of poor decision-making. The story follows siblings who discover a strange creature in a swamp and ignore a very specific warning: do not feed the weirdo. As the creature undergoes a terrifying transformation, the protagonists must grapple with the guilt of their choices and the urgency of fixing their mistake. While it delivers the classic Goosebumps spooky atmosphere, it serves as a fantastic conversation starter about impulse control and curiosity. It is best suited for children ages 8 to 12 who can handle mild peril and slapstick horror without losing sleep.
