About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is navigating the social isolation of a recent move or seeking a safe space to explore their fears of the unknown. It is an ideal pick for the middle-grade reader who craves spooky atmospheric mysteries but still values the core themes of family loyalty and the bond between a boy and his dog. This classic Goosebumps tale follows Grady, a boy who has just moved to the Florida Everglades, as he defends his new pet against neighborhood suspicion while a real monster lurks in the swamp. While the story is a fast-paced horror-thriller, it deeply addresses the emotional weight of not being believed by adults and the struggle to find true friends in a new place. The spooky elements provide a thrill without being overly graphic, making it a perfect 'entry-level' horror novel for ages 8 to 12. Parents will appreciate the way it encourages children to trust their instincts and look past surface-level appearances.
